LOCATION: California & Las Vegas

Join Los Angeles NORML & Respect My Region for their weekly Taco Tuesday Sesh in Venice Beach.

This free event is for industry people, consumers, and newbies alike!

The sesh starts at 4:20, but we are usually there until 9 and sometimes even later, so come anytime. We are there for happy hour & the sunset. It’s a great place to meet new people, see old friends, and network.

This is an outdoor dining event with a full food/bar menu under a big tent with beach sand, fire pits, heat lamps, couches, entertainment, and complimentary chips & salsa.

Street parking is easy, and there is also a valet. Please respect all local neighbors and businesses.

Text Ian to RSVP: 310-466-9292

It’s official! The California State Fair’s weed competition is returning next year, and it’s going to be bigger than ever.

The competition is set to take place in conjunction with the 2023 CA State Fair, which runs from July 14-30, 2023, at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds in Sacramento, California.

California Cannabis

California is known for many things, but perhaps the most prominent among them is its historical and ongoing relationship with cannabis. It was the first state in the nation to legalize medical marijuana in 1996. And it has been at the forefront of cannabis legislation ever since.

But California’s influence on cannabis culture goes far beyond its role as a leader in legislative reform. The state has also long been a powerhouse for cultivation and breeding, with some of the world’s most unique and sought-after strains coming out of its greenhouses.

The Cannabis Competition

The California Cannabis Competition and Awards is a cannabis agriculture competition meant to highlight and acknowledge the amazing craft genetics this state’s growers have to offer.

The competition is open to all California licensed cannabis growers and will award medals for the cannabis flower only, highlighting the main cannabinoids and terpenes reflected in the cannabis flower. Eight unique cannabis compounds will be tested and awarded. There will also be over s 60 silver, gold, and double gold medals available, as well as 11 coveted Golden Bear trophies, which will be given to the best of the best.

SC Labs, California’s premier cannabis and hemp testing lab, will perform and certify the competition’s objective scoring using science-based analysis.

The submission period will run from January 10, 2023, to April 30, 2023.

The Importance Of Inclusion In Agriculture

The Cannabis Competition and Awards is a great opportunity for farmers to show off their cannabis. It’s a chance for them to get their product into the hands of consumers in an environment where consumers can feel safe purchasing from vendors who have been vetted by the competition. This helps normalize cannabis as a legitimate agricultural product, making it easier for people who don’t know much about the industry to learn about it.

By including the competition at State Fair, we are showing that cannabis is just as important as any other agricultural product, even if it is still federally illegal.

We are excited to see what the 2023 Cannabis Competition has in store. We believe that the criteria for this competition were well selected, as they focus on terpene quality and not just THC or CBD content.

California is known for its cannabis and agriculture, so it makes sense to combine these two industries into one event. This way, we can help destigmatize cannabis in many different industries, such as agriculture and science.

We believe that this competition will be a great way to start moving away from the stigma surrounding cannabis use and towards a more open dialogue about the potential benefits of using and cultivating cannabis plants.

Enjoyed that first hit? Come chill with us every week at the Friday Sesh for a freshly packed bowl of the week’s best cannabis news!

After successful events at San Francisco and Chicago this year, we’re all set for Cannabis Drinks Expo 2023!

Both San Francisco and Chicago saw a huge networking opportunity for anyone curious about the future direction of the cannabis drinks industry in the United States.

Cannabis Drinks Expo’s goal and theme for 2023 remains “Growing the Category”. With new states becomg legal, 2023 show will be focused to bring cannabis drinks professionals from all new legal states as well, with key focus on MSO’s, dispensaries, cannabis growers, packaging companies, co-packers, flavour suppliers, cannabis drinks brands, service providers that are in or looking to enter the Cannabis Beverage category.

Extensive research was done at this year’s show with the stakeholders to discuss the theme for 2023. After analyzing more than 50 feedback forms, meeting MSO’s, Co-Packers and other influencers of the category, we have concluded that the 2023 theme will again be ‘Growing the Category’. The 2023 theme will be broken down into 4 main pillars. Each pillar, as followers, will be marketed all year round to help the category grow.

Creating end consumer pull

One the main challenge our cannabis drinks category faces is to create end consumer demand. CDE will work with speakers, visitors, exhibitors and media to create more end consumer awareness on Cannabis Beverages. The ultimate demand in consumers will help dispensaries and retailers stock cannabis beverages which will help the entire supply chain.

Educating consumers on Cannabis Beverages

The second pillar that CDE will focus on will be inducing end consumers with more technical information and on why they should ‘try’ cannabis beverages. CDE will work with key influencers in the next 12 months to educate current cannabis consumers on cannabis beverages and also craft beer, wine and spirits drinkers on how cannabis beverages can also be part of their social consumption.

State bottlenecks

One of the common feedback CDE got was to have other state co-packers and MSO’s at both the locations as they are key to unlocking some logistical and legal bottlenecks that we have in place in the US market. CDE will work on getting leading co-packers and MSO’s as exhibitors in 2023. This will help current and new brands expand their distribution.

National and International theme

2023 will also have a focus on bringing new state and international participants and will have an national and international panel discussions on how brands can partner with US companies and how US companies can partner with foreign companies to grow. All of the above pillars will have one goal: Growing the Category.

Where and When

San Francisco: July 27, 2023, South San Francisco Conference Center, 255 South Airport Boulevard South San Francisco, California

Who are the exhibitors?

If you’re serious about the cannabis drinks category, we’re still keeping it as real as ever. At Cannabis Drinks Expo, our goal is to empower you with knowledge, network, and platform so you can grow and build your cannabis drinks business. CDE is where you will find cannabis brands and suppliers that are serious about building their business in this category exhibit.

Potential exhibitors will include: Medical marijuana producers, Cannabis growers, Cannabis producers/ product developers, Cannabis processors, Cannabis distributors/transporters, Wineries, Breweries, Distilleries, Branded drinks companies, Drinks manufacturers/producers, Pharma companies, Equipment and service providers, CBD manufacturers, Marijuana-Infused products and edibles providers, Testing and laboratory services, Logistics, and supply chain operators, Drinks distributors/wholesalers, Drinks importers, Lobbyists/ public affairs businesses, Political advisors

The event will offer 100 exhibits per city only, so space is limited. Exhibitors are encouraged to reserve space as early as spots are expected to sell out quickly. Set up includes: The show is a trestle table set up, you will not pay anything extra for chairs and tables and wifi. Your pricing covers ALL costs associated with the show. You are required to bring in one roll-up banner only and may place marketing material on your table.

Pricing

Early Bird: $2000 December 1, 2022, to January 31, 2023
Regular: $2400 February 1, 2023, onwards.

*Get a further 10% discount if selecting both locations (San Francisco and Chicago)

Set up includes:

1. 6′ x 30″ Table-Top, with skirting
2. Chairs
3. e-Program Guide Listing
4. 2 Passes for Cocktail Party
5. 2 Lunch passes
6. Wifi

Important Note:

This is a NON-CANNABIS CONSUMPTION and SAMPLE event. Exhibitors are not allowed to distribute, sell, gift, or consume any medicated or live THC products at the venue at all times.

The event will offer 100 exhibits only, so space is limited. Exhibitors are encouraged to reserve space as early as spots are expected to sell out quickly. Set up Includes: The show is a trestle table set up, you will not pay anything extra for chairs and tables and wifi. Your pricing covers ALL costs associated with the show. You are required to bring in one roll-up banner only and may place marketing material on your table. For more information about the show, please email us at info@cannabisdrinksexpo.com or visit www.cannabisdrinksexpo.com. By registering for the Cannabis Drinks Expo, you also accept the Terms and Conditions listed on the Cannabis Drinks website.

Refunds and Cancellation Policy

In the case of force majeure or unforeseeable circumstances where event gathering limit is not raised to a minimum viable number or the city or local county has not permitted event gatherings on the planned dates, Cannabis Drinks Expo will postpone the event to the next feasible date and your credit will be moved forward to the new date. No refund will be provided due to force majeure circumstances.

FAQs

Is there ID or minimum age requirement to enter the event?

The minimum age is 21 to enter the venue and event. No Kids or Pets will be allowed in the venue.

What can I bring to the event?

You can bring Non-THC display material only but not the sample, 1 roll-up banner (Maximum size allowed is 80-85 x 200cm), marketing materials, machine (if) that should not cover fellow participants and should be only kept on the table. Please email us to clarify the size, weight of the machine before bringing it to the event.

You may display a roll-up banner behind your table. Other materials that may be displayed include brand sell sheets, brochures, business cards, and pricing. Only 1 roll-up banner can be displayed per table.  No large equipment is allowed at the show. The maximum size of equipment allowed is 5ft long and 2 ft high and you can ONLY place it on your table.

What’s the refund policy?

No refunds will be provided.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Yes, you can log in to the exhibitor zone and print your badges in order to save time at the reception. You can also collect your tickets from the reception desk.

Can I update my registration information?

You have to update your company details 45 days prior to the event date by logging into the exhibitor zone. Any changes will not be accepted or the CDE organizer will be responsible for any changes/ error.

Is my registration fee or ticket transferable?

No, your tickets are non-transferrable. Kindly contact the CDE organizer for any queries/ concerns.

Can We Sample Cannabis?

No, you cannot sample Cannabis. This is a NON-CANNABIS CONSUMPTION and SAMPLE event. Exhibitors are not allowed to distribute, sell, gift or consume any medicated or live THC products, cannabis or cannabis products at the venue at all times.

Section 26153 of the Business and Professions Code prohibits a licensee from giving away any amount of cannabis or cannabis products, or any cannabis accessories, as part of a business promotion or other commercial activity.

Are there power outlets available at my table?

No. There are no power outlets or arrangements due to the safety and security measures of the venue.

Can I ship marketing material to the venue directly?

No, the venue does not provide this facility. You may bring them in with you directly on the day of the show.

Is lunch included in my exhibitor package?

Yes, 2 lunch passes are included per table.

Is the cocktail party included in my exhibitor package?

Yes, 2 passes are included per table.

What are the exhibitor set-up and bump-out times for the event?

For San Francisco, The setup time on July 27 is 8 am. The bump-out time on July 27 is 5 pm.

Lift San Francisco 2023 – Launched in 2016, Lift is the original large-scale cannabis trade show in Canada, serving the cannabis community as both a meeting place and a destination for discovery. Each Lift expo showcases leading-edge content and premiere exhibitors in a high-energy setting for thousands of retailers, producers, growers, investors, and decision-makers. All this, plus our famous surprises, and a-ha! moments.

Launched in 2016, Lift is the original large-scale cannabis trade show in Canada, serving the cannabis community as both a meeting place and a destination for discovery. Each Lift expo showcases leading-edge content and premiere exhibitors in a high-energy setting for thousands of retailers, producers, growers, investors, and decision-makers. All this, plus our famous surprises, and a-ha! moments.

Lift Events & Experiences, known for Canada’s number-one cannabis industry conferences and trade shows, is expanding across the continent. Dedicated to honoring the legacy of the cannabis industry, Lift welcomes everyone, from craft growers to multistate operators to everyday folks who enjoy and respect the plant.

Through one-on-one connections and conversations, the Lift team ensures that each event’s content, expo, and activations are unique. And most importantly, Lift cares for each audience within the full cannabis spectrum – growers, brands and product delivery, advocacy and investment, legal, budtenders, and more – while paying tribute to the roots of each event’s location.

As healthy debates are encouraged, the business, diversity, and the future of cannabis will be addressed. Leading subject matter experts and fresh new voices will take to the stage. Retailers, brands, and those who help to create them from seed to sale will be elevated and innovative new products will be discovered. Plus, Lift’s signature surprises and “a-ha” moments, live music, cameo appearances, prize giveaways, and the legendary Lift After Party, are designed to surprise and delight.

It’s all in a day’s work for the events and experiences dedicated to lifting the cannabis community.

THE INDUSTRY’S LEADING EVENT FOR PLANT-TOUCHING BUSINESSES

Cannabis Conference 2023, the industry’s leading and longest-running event exclusively dedicated to plant-touching businesses, returns to Vegas this August and is gearing up for its best year yet—with:

• A NEW day-long Cultivation Roundtable for cultivators,
• NEW Networking Opportunities, and
• NEW Pre-show Workshops for those entering the industry.

If you own or work for a plant-touching cannabis business, no other show is more focused on your needs and your success.

Cannabis Conference is produced by Cannabis Business Times editors and an amazing advisory board of cultivators, retailers, and other experts who live and breathe the same challenges and opportunities as you every single day.

It is where you will gain insights that will help you be more impactful to your business and your co-workers, and that will make your business and your cannabis career more successful, and where you will learn from the mistakes others have made that can save your business thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It is where you will learn how to survive market downturns and prepare for emerging stronger when they are over.

It is where you will learn from leaders and innovators in cannabis cultivation, retail, and extraction about the technical, operational, and strategical tools you need to thrive in this ever-challenging, ever-changing industry.

It is where you’ll make connections and build new relationships, as well as find new technologies and solutions that can mean the difference between surviving and thriving.

It is where you will share with and learn from your peers, and contribute to the industry’s overall success as well as your own.

This is Cannabis Conference 2023…where we treasure the opportunity to contribute to your journey and celebrate your success along the way … and where you’ll get your money’s worth (and then some).