What Is 4/20 and Why Is It Celebrated?

420, or 4/20, is globally recognized as the unofficial holiday of cannabis culture. Every year on April 20th, enthusiasts, growers, and advocates around the world light up and come together to celebrate the plant — but where did this number come from, and why has it become so iconic?

The Origin of 4/20

The story traces back to California in the early 1970s. A group of high school students who called themselves “The Waldos” used to meet at exactly 4:20 PM after school to smoke cannabis. They used “420” as a code word for their secret sessions — and the term started to spread.

Thanks to the influence of the Grateful Dead community and broader cannabis counterculture, "420" evolved into a symbol embraced by cannabis users everywhere.

Why 4/20 Matters Today

These days, 4/20 is more than just a time to smoke. It’s a day to:

• Raise awareness about cannabis and its medicinal, cultural, and industrial value
• Push for legalization and drug policy reform
• Celebrate the plant and the communities built around it

In many cities around the world, people gather for protests, festivals, or peaceful demonstrations. It’s also become a major retail holiday, with sales on seeds, grow gear, and other cannabis-related products.

How to Celebrate 4/20 Responsibly

• Respect local laws — especially in countries like Finland, where cannabis remains illegal
• Grow smarter — use energy-efficient LED lights and sustainable practices
• Support independent breeders and responsible seedbanks

At Strain Station, we celebrate 4/20 by offering premium cannabis seeds, top-tier grow equipment, and inspiration for home growers — all within the boundaries of local law.

Great growth starts with a great seed.

Happy 4/20!