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Where Does The Term "420" Come From?

Updated: Jan 12


weed leaves out of focus with the words: Where does the term "420" come from

The term "420" has become synonymous with the cannabis community, often being used as a code word for smoking marijuana. While its exact origins are debated, there are several theories about how the term came to be.


One of the most popular theories is that it originated from a group of high school students in San Rafael, California, in the early 1970s. The story goes that a group of friends, who called themselves "the Waldos," would meet at 4:20 p.m. every day to smoke marijuana. They would often use the code word "420" to refer to their smoking sessions, and the term eventually caught on within their school and community.


Another theory suggests that "420" originated from a police code used in California to signify marijuana use. However, there is no evidence to support this theory, and it is generally considered to be a myth.


Regardless of its origins, the term "420" has become a widely recognized symbol of cannabis culture. It is celebrated annually on April 20th (4/20) by cannabis enthusiasts around the world, who gather to smoke and celebrate the plant.


Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a wider range of meanings and uses within the cannabis community. Some use it as a code word to discreetly discuss cannabis use in public, while others use it as a way to connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for the plant.


Despite its origins being somewhat shrouded in mystery, there is no denying the cultural significance of the term "420" within the cannabis community. Whether you use it to signify a smoking session, a time of day, or a date on the calendar, the term has become a symbol of the ongoing fight for legalization and acceptance of cannabis around the world.

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