San Francisco is celebrating “Weed Week,” a time dedicated to all things cannabis, culminating in a significant gathering on April 20 at Hippie Hill. This year’s festivities come at a crucial time for local cannabis shops, as they face challenges with declining sales and proposed tax increases.
The annual celebration of “420” has been a long-standing tradition for cannabis enthusiasts, but this year is particularly important due to the cancellation of formal events and the struggles of legal dispensaries. Many shops, like the Flore Dispensary on Noe Street, are hoping for a much-needed boost during this festive week.
Owner Terrance Alan emphasized that “Weed Week” plays a vital role in normalizing cannabis use for the community. According to data gathered by NBC Bay Area, legal cannabis sales have dropped approximately 20% since 2021. Dispensaries are also contending with a proposed increase in the state excise tax from 15% to 19%. Alan warned that rising prices and fewer shops could push cannabis consumers back into the illegal market, which poses risks as the products are untested and their origins are uncertain.
The festivities kicked off on Sunday at the Haight Street Art Center, featuring the SF Space Walk and its new “Keep Glowing” exhibit of black light posters, among other attractions.
For many in the cannabis community, “Weed Week” represents more than just a celebration; it highlights the ongoing challenges and the importance of advocacy for the legal cannabis industry in San Francisco.
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