Music. Education. Advocacy.

In 2015, a small group of cannabis enthusiasts joined together around the idea to create National Cannabis Festival — an event celebrating progress on marijuana legalization in Washington, DC and across the nation. The founders envisioned a festival recognizing the spirit of the cannabis movement and the non-profit groups that have fought for so long to end marijuana prohibition…

On April 23, 2016, activists and enthusiasts representing 30 states and the District of Columbia gathered at the Festival Grounds at RFK Stadium for the inaugural National Cannabis Festival.

Attendees enjoyed a full day concert headlined by hip-hop legends De La Soul, remarks from members of congress, education sessions, yoga, games, contests, food and drinks. Taking place just one mile from the U.S. Capitol Building, the first-ever National Cannabis Festival displayed the diversity in age and culture of the cannabis community.

NCF headlining artists have included: The Wu-Tang Clan, 2 Chainz, Thundercat, Juicy J, Action Bronson, Biz Markie, Cypress Hill, Free Nationals, Ludacris, Method Man & Redman, The Pharcyde, Slick Rick, Wiz Khalifa and more.

Our main stage and Policy Summit features the voices of activists and advocacy partners, cannabis experts, community leaders, lawmakers and veterans’ groups.

Be part of the story, join our email list, follow our journey on Instagram and Facebook, and get ready to have some fun at the 9th Annual National Cannabis Festival on Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19, 2025.