The Origin of the Date 4/20

April 20th, also known as 4/20, has become a well-known date associated with cannabis culture. But where did this date originate from? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of 4/20. We will also explore how it became a symbol for cannabis enthusiasts around the world.

First, let’s start with the basics. 4/20 is a numerical shorthand for the date April 20th. It is celebrated annually by cannabis enthusiasts as a day to smoke, consume, and celebrate the plant. But how did this date come to be associated with cannabis in the first place? Let’s find out.

In this post, we’ll explore the different theories surrounding the origin of 4/20. While the exact origins of the date may be up for debate, one thing is certain: 4/20 has become a significant symbol for cannabis culture. Additionally, its influence can be seen all around the world.

The Waldos

One of the most popular theories about the origin of 4/20 involves a group of high school students from San Rafael, California, who called themselves the Waldos. According to the story, the Waldos would meet at 4:20 pm every day to smoke cannabis together. This eventually led to the group using 4:20 as a code word for cannabis. The term spread throughout their school and beyond.

While there is some evidence to support this theory, it’s important to note that the Waldos themselves have never claimed to have invented the term. In fact, they have stated that they first heard the term from a friend’s older brother. He was a member of the Grateful Dead.

Despite this, the Waldos’ story has become synonymous with the origins of 4/20, and their contribution to cannabis culture cannot be denied.

The Police Code Theory

Another theory about the origin of 4/20 involves police codes. Some people believe that 4/20 was originally used as a police code for cannabis-related offenses, which would have led to the date being associated with the drug.

However, there is no evidence to support this theory. In fact, most police codes related to drugs use different numbers. There is no known code for cannabis that uses 4/20.

While this theory may be enticing, it is likely a myth and should be taken with a grain of salt.

 

The Bob Dylan Connection of 4/20

Another theory about the origin of 4/20 involves the musician, Bob Dylan. Some people believe that the date is a reference to the song “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” which includes the lyrics “Everybody must get stoned.”

The theory goes that if you multiply 12 by 35, you get 420, and this led to the date becoming associated with cannabis culture.

However, there is no evidence to support this theory, and it is likely a coincidence rather than a deliberate reference to cannabis.

The Time Theory

One of the simplest theories about the origin of 4/20 is that it’s a reference to the time of day when people typically consume cannabis. 4:20 pm is a common time for people to smoke or consume cannabis. This may have led to the date becoming associated with the drug.

While this theory may be less exciting than some of the others, it is certainly a possibility, and it’s likely that the time of day has played a role in the association between 4/20 and cannabis culture.

The High Times Theory

One of the most popular theories about the origin of 4/20 involves the magazine High Times. According to this theory, the editors of High Times, who are known for their advocacy of cannabis, were the first to popularize the date.

The magazine reportedly used the term in its articles and events. It eventually spread to become a widely recognized symbol for cannabis culture.

While it’s difficult to say for sure whether High Times was the first to use the term 4/20, it’s clear that the magazine played a significant role in popularizing it. Furthermore, making it a symbol for cannabis enthusiasts around the world.

The Spread of 4/20

Regardless of its origins, 4/20 has become a widely recognized symbol for cannabis culture. The date is celebrated annually by cannabis enthusiasts world wide, and it has even been recognized by governments and institutions.

For example, in 2018, the Canadian government announced that it would legalize cannabis on October 17th – or 10/17. However, the government also acknowledged that many Canadians celebrate cannabis on 4/20, and so it made sure to include that date in its messaging as well.

The influence of 4/20 can also be seen in popular culture, with references to the date appearing in movies, TV shows, and music. It has become a significant symbol for cannabis enthusiasts, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.

The Future of 4/20

As cannabis becomes increasingly accepted and legalized, it’s likely that 4/20 will continue to play a significant role. The date has already become a widely recognized symbol for cannabis enthusiasts. It’s also likely that it will continue to be celebrated annually by people around the world.

However, as cannabis becomes more mainstream, it’s possible that 4/20 may lose some of its counter cultural significance. In the future, we may see other dates or symbols emerge as more appropriate representations of cannabis culture.

Regardless of its origins, 4/20 has become a significant symbol for cannabis enthusiasts around the world. While the exact origins of the date may be up for debate, one thing is certain: 4/20 has played a significant role in the history of cannabis culture, all around us. As we move forward, it’s important to remember the history and significance of 4/20. Lets continue celebrating the plant and its many benefits!