The Origins of 420: How a Simple Code Became a Global Cannabis Holiday
April 20th—or 4/20—has become an international day of celebration for the cannabis community. Across the United States and beyond, festivals and events mark the occasion, and dispensaries offer some of their best deals of the year. But how did this simple number become such a powerful cultural symbol? The story of 420 is a fascinating blend of youthful rebellion, counterculture icons, and the enduring power of word-of-mouth.
The phrase “420” traces its origins back to the fall of 1971 at San Rafael High School in California. A group of five students who called themselves “the Waldos”—because they often hung out by a wall outside the school—heard rumors of an abandoned cannabis grow hidden somewhere near Point Reyes. They decided to search for it and agreed to meet after school at exactly 4:20 p.m. to begin their hunt. Despite never finding the elusive crop, the Waldos continued using “420” as a code word to signify it was time to consume cannabis.
The story might have ended there, but the Waldos had a connection that would take their slang nationwide. One of their older brothers was friends with Phil Lesh, the bassist for the legendary counterculture band, The Grateful Dead. Through this connection, the term “420” infiltrated the Deadhead community—a vast network of devoted fans who followed the band across the country. As the phrase spread among Deadheads, it gradually became shorthand for all things cannabis-related.
By the early 1990s, the term had gained even more prominence when High Times magazine, a publication deeply entrenched in cannabis culture, began using and promoting the phrase. This gave “420” a level of mainstream exposure it had never seen before, cementing its place in cannabis history. Over time, April 20th naturally evolved into a day of celebration, activism, and community for cannabis enthusiasts worldwide.
Today, 420 is more than just a number—it’s a symbol of unity, freedom, and the ongoing movement for cannabis legalization. Whether you’re attending a festival, visiting your favorite dispensary, or simply relaxing with friends, 420 is a day to celebrate how far the cannabis community has come—and to look forward to what’s still ahead.
So, this April 20th, take a moment to join the celebration, reflect on the history, and enjoy the community that makes this culture so vibrant. Happy 420!
