April 20, or 4/20, is best known as the de facto marijuana holiday in the United States. The date holds special meaning for marijuana users, both medical and recreational, as marijuana is legal in more than half of the U.S. On this date, the cannabis industry offers special promotions, and enthusiasts tend to celebrate the occasion.
‘Unofficial Marijuana Day’?
The true origins of April 20 or 4/20 as a marijuana holiday are unknown, but a number of theories have floated about. One such assertion is that ‘420’ was an official police radio code name for marijuana, although this theory has been debunked. Another story suggests that the day is related to Bob Dylan’s song Rainy Day Women #12 & 35, which features the chorus “Everybody must get stoned.” The result of the multiplication of 12 and 35 yields the number 420.
Yet, the most plausible origin tale involves a group of 1970s California high school buddies. The group’s association with 4/20 started when one of the buddies’ brothers cultivated marijuana in the woods outside their school. Not wanting to get caught, he created a map of where the stash was located and gave it to the group, who were excited to find the treasure.
In the fall of 1971, at precisely 4:20 pm, the group opted to smoke a joint and look for the hidden marijuana. They never located it, but their ‘420’ code became popular within the group and stuck, particularly as they went to Grateful Dead concerts.
The Myth of Bob Marley
Contrary to popular opinion, 4/20 has nothing to do with the legendary artist Bob Marley. He was not born or died on April 20. Marley was born on February 6, 1945, and died on May 11, 1981, at the age of 36, as reported by USA Today.
