Published by CBDX — America’s Gummy Destination for THC, CBD, CBN, and Beyond
Every April 20th, cannabis culture takes center stage as people across the country mark a day rooted in community, relaxation, and appreciation for the plant. But while millions recognize “420” as a cannabis code, few know the true origin of the term—or how it became a worldwide symbol for freedom, fun, and elevated living.
Let’s take it back to where it all began.
The Real Origin: Five Teens, a Map, and a Meeting at 4:20
The year was 1971. In the quiet town of San Rafael, California, five high school students who called themselves “The Waldos” stumbled onto a local legend: a Coast Guard service member had supposedly abandoned a secret cannabis crop somewhere near Point Reyes.
Armed with a hand-drawn map and boundless curiosity, the group decided to meet after school at 4:20 p.m. to go looking for it. They’d simply say “420” to each other in the hallways, and that was the code. While they never actually found the crop, 420 became their go-to term for lighting up and hanging out.
From Inside Joke to Global Movement
It might have remained just a local code word if not for a lucky connection: one of the Waldos had a family member working closely with the Grateful Dead. Through band rehearsals, road trips, and good vibes, the term 420 spread across Deadhead communities nationwide.
By the 1990s, High Times magazine picked it up and amplified it globally. From there, “420” became part of the cannabis world’s DNA.
The Myths That Missed the Mark
Like any good origin story, 420 picked up plenty of myths along the way. Here are some of the most persistent — and completely false — theories:
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It’s not a police code for smoking weed.
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It’s not the number of chemical compounds in cannabis (there are actually over 500).
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It’s not related to Bob Dylan lyrics, Amsterdam traditions, or Hitler’s birthday (yes, that unfortunate coincidence is purely that—coincidence).
The real story? Five teenagers, an abandoned crop, and an after-school meet-up time.
420 Today: More Than a Time or a Date
Today, 420 is a full-blown cultural event, with everything from cannabis festivals to community cleanups, legalization advocacy, and product drops that rival Black Friday.
But at its heart, 420 is about connection. Whether you’re relaxing solo, hanging with friends, or simply enjoying a few hours of peace and clarity, it’s a reminder to slow down, take care of yourself, and find joy in the moment.
CBDX and 420: Made for Each Other
At CBDX, 420 isn’t just a date — it’s a reminder of why we do what we do. We believe in feel-good rituals, everyday elevation, and gummies that hit just right.
With a lineup built entirely around high-quality THC and CBD gummies, there’s something for every kind of 420 vibe — whether you're decompressing after a long day, tapping into your creative flow, or setting the mood for a chill night in.
Explore CBDX.com and find your perfect match.
What 420 Means in 2025
What started as a simple code between friends has become a worldwide celebration of cannabis culture, creativity, and reclaiming the right to feel good. And now more than ever, 420 is about keeping it simple, intentional, and real.
So this April 20th, take it slow. Find your rhythm. And enjoy the ride — your way.
Happy 420 from all of us at CBDX.
