The Story of 4/20: From a High School Code to a Global Cannabis Holiday 

Every year on April 20th, people across the world light up in celebration of cannabis culture. But how did 4/20 become the day for weed lovers everywhere? Like many great things, it started with a group of curious teens, a treasure map, and a bit of luck.  In this blog, we’re diving into all things 4/20—from its legendary origins and how it became a cultural phenomenon, to the way it’s celebrated today and why it still matters in the evolving world of cannabis. 

[PS- if you haven’t already, check out our 4/20 pop-up schedule to find out how you can WIN A VOLCANO CLASSIC this weekend!]

The Origins: High School Legends and a Hidden Stash 

Back in the early 1970s in San Rafael, California, a group of high school friends consisting of David Reddix, Steve Capper, Larry Schwartz, Jeff Noel, and Mark Gravich who called themselves The Waldos™ sparked the beginning of a massive movement—without even knowing it. The story goes that in the fall of ’71, Steve Capper was handed a rough “treasure map” to a hidden cannabis patch near Point Reyes. It came from a buddy whose brother, a Coast Guardsman, had grown the crop but got spooked about getting caught. He gave the teens permission to harvest it which sparked the start of their after-school mission for weeks.  

The Waldos would meet up after school at 4:20 p.m. by the Louis Pasteur statue on campus to light a joint and set off in search of the mysterious weed patch. To keep it hush-hush, they used the phrase “420 Louie™” as their secret code. Eventually, they dropped the “Louie” and just said “420”—and just like that, a code word was born. 

[What were they smoking? Might just have been one of these legendary 70s strains.]

From left to right, Mark Gravitch, Larry Schwartz, Dave Reddix, Steve Capper, and Jeffrey Noel—known as the Waldos—pose beneath the statue of Louis Pasteur at San Rafael High School in San Rafael. 

From Code to Culture 

One of the Waldos had a brother who was close with Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh. Thanks to that connection, the Waldos started hanging out in the Dead’s circle, and “420” began to spread through the band’s fanbase like wildfire. 

Then came the BIG moment that helped launch 420 into the mainstream. In the early ’90s, High Times magazine reporter Steve Bloom was at a Dead show when he was handed a flyer inviting people to “meet at 4:20 on 4/20 for 420-ing in Marin County.” High Times published the flyer, and soon “420” became more than just a secret—it was a movement. 

This original 420 flyer was handed out in the parking lot at the Oakland Coliseum in December 1990. 

How 4/20 Is Celebrated Today 

Fast forward to today, and 4/20 is celebrated worldwide. From major festivals and smoke-outs to local dispensary deals and advocacy events, the holiday brings together cannabis enthusiasts of all kinds. It’s not just about lighting up—though there’s plenty of that—it’s also about community, celebration, and pushing forward cannabis reform. 

Cities like Denver, San Francisco, Portland and Vancouver host massive 4/20 gatherings, complete with music, vendors, and speakers. Meanwhile, dispensaries and cannabis brands mark the occasion with limited-edition products, special sales, and giveaways. 

More Than a Holiday 

Beyond the good vibes and green clouds, 4/20 also carries deeper meaning.  Perhaps the biggest irony of the cultural phenomenon of 4/20 is that what started as a joke between a couple stoned teenagers has blossomed into the biggest sales event for the industry. It’s a day to reflect on the history of cannabis prohibition, the progress of legalization, and the work still to be done—especially around social equity and criminal justice reform. As cannabis becomes more accepted and accessible, 4/20 serves as a reminder of the plant’s journey from underground culture to mainstream movement. 

Whether you’re sparking a joint, attending a festival, or just appreciating how far cannabis culture has come, 4/20 is a moment to connect, reflect, and celebrate. From a statue in San Rafael to a global stage, it all started with a group of friends chasing a rumor—and it’s grown into something legendary. 

Preparing for the big day? Find Nostalgia near you to get the sesh started this 4/20!  Be sure to keep an eye out for our NEW 2000’s line coming soon -Don’t miss out on the drop date!