What does the 420 actually mean? We are asked this question relatively often in connection with our DAO 420MKT. In this article, we want to look at this question in detail and put all the myths and legends surrounding this number combination to rest.
What is the meaning of 420 in cannabis?
In the cannabis community, 420 has long been a synonym or code word for marijuana or hashish. In the USA in particular, the number is often associated with the consumption of cannabis. But why is that? What is the story behind it?
The treasure hunt at 4:20 am
On a windy fall day in 1971 in San Rafael, California, five friends meet at the statue of French chemist Louis Pasteur. The group, known as “The Waldos”, had arranged to meet at 20 minutes past 4 in the afternoon (or 4:20 pm or “four twenty” as it is known in English) with a clear goal: they wanted to find a treasure.
One of the Waldos received an ominous treasure map from a lighthouse keeper. This was supposed to show the way to an abandoned cannabis plantation. The friends set off, but their endeavor was unsuccessful.
They don’t let up and meet again on the following days at the statue of Louis Pasteur, each time at 4:20 am.
In a time without cell phones, the Internet and instant messengers, people had to rely on personal appointments. As a result, such fixed times certainly became established much more quickly than they do today. The time, which can be pronounced quickly with just a few syllables, quickly became more than just the official “start of work”.
From the time to the secret code
Over time, this time becomes their secret code and it quickly spreads among friends and other like-minded people.
The plantation was never found, but a myth and a synonym were created.
The role of “The Grateful Dead”
The Waldos got together with the band “The Grateful Dead” in a roundabout way, were invited to the band’s parties and sometimes even found themselves backstage. One of the Waldos became a roadie for the band’s bassist, Phil Lesh. Phil helped popularize the term.
In 1990, they played a concert in Oakland-Alameda at the County Coliseum. On the flyer’ of the event was an invitation to smoke “420” on 4/20 at 4:20pm.
This is how the word “420” found its way into the language of the fans and eventually spread throughout Northern California. The original flyer can be viewed here, for example.
In the years that followed, this code was used by more and more people and slowly but surely spread around the world. The code “420” became synonymous with cannabis use and developed into an important part of the subculture.
Myths about the 420 meaning
Over time, there have been more and more different theories and myths about where the code “420” actually comes from and what it means. These include:
- 420 is the police code for cannabis possession: This is a common misconception, but in reality there is no official police code for cannabis possession.
- 420 is the anniversary of Bob Marley’s death: Although Bob Marley is an important figure in cannabis culture, February 20 is not the anniversary of his death. He died on May 11, 1981.
- 420 is the number of chemical compounds in cannabis: 315 are known.
Importance of 420 in the cannabis community
420 has become an important symbol for the cannabis community because it represents a common bond. No matter where you are in the world, when you meet someone who knows 420, you know you share a common love of cannabis.
On April 20 (4/20), events and festivals dedicated to cannabis will take place in many cities around the world.
“420” Events
Some events also have the number directly in their name, for example:
- “420 Music & Arts Festival” – This is an annual music and arts festival that takes place in Toronto, Canada and focuses on hip-hop and rap music.
- “420 Rally” – This is an annual demonstration for the legalization of cannabis that takes place in Denver, Colorado. The event includes music, speeches and other activities and attracts thousands of people every year.
420MKT
The term 420 is also often used as part of cannabis marketing strategies. Companies that sell cannabis products often use the term in their advertising campaigns and on their products to make the connection to cannabis and attract customer attention. That’s why we decided to use 420 for our
Significance in the music industry
In the music industry, “420” has become a recurring theme in many songs and albums, especially in hip-hop and rap music. Many artists have mentioned the term in their lyrics, referring to their love of cannabis and cannabis culture.
- “It’s 4/20 every night, who wanna get high?” – Cypress Hill – “Pass the Dutch”
- “If I had my way at 4:20 every day you could blaze a J” – Snoop Dogg on Wiz Khalifa – “420 (Blaze Up)”
- “4:20 mean you either roll up or roll out” – Method Man – “4:20”
The importance in the film and television industry
The list of classic stoner films is long. Starting with “Dazed and Confused”, which was released in 1993, to “The Big Lebowski” and “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle”. With “Lammbock”, there is also a film from Germany that should appear on this list.
One episode of the animated comedy Family Guy, entitled “420”, is specifically dedicated to this topic. In the plot, Stewie and Brian try to legalize marijuana. The show includes the classic song and dance “A Bag of Weed”, which can be seen on YouTube.
Conclusion on the importance of 420
Overall, the term 420 has a strong connection to cannabis and cannabis culture and is often used in pop culture, marketing and events. It has become an important symbol for the cannabis community and shows the popularity and acceptance of cannabis in society.