What is 4/20?

4/20 is a code word for pot, and it’s everywhere. From the movies to television shows to pop culture, people are talking about the unofficial pot holiday known as “4/20”. But what is the significance of the date? Are we really that obsessed with it? And is it really a holiday at all?

The History of 4/20

The origins of 4/20 can be traced back to a 1970s Bay Area group of cannabis consumers who called themselves the “420 Tribe.” These individuals would meet at a cafe in Oakland, California called the “Squishy Bear” to celebrate April 20th, the day they all agreed on as the most appropriate day to smoke weed. The name itself is a reference to the date’s significance in the cannabis community.

The “420 Tribe” didn’t just meet on April 20th, though. They met at the same location throughout the rest of the year, which lead to the name “420” becoming synonymous with the date. It was also the date when police would be the least present in the city of Oakland, allowing the members of the “Tribe” to congregate in peace.

4/20 is About Political Protest

One of the reasons 420 has become so popular is because it’s a day of protest. People will light up at 4:20 pm on April 20th to show support for cannabis culture, or to protest something else. The day has become a symbol for the legalization of marijuana, and people will smoke up to protest the laws that are in place that prohibit its use. The day is also a day for peace across the globe. People will light up at 4:20 pm to show support for those who are fighting for the right to consume marijuana without reprisal.

4/20 is About Weed Culture

There are a lot of theories out there about what 420 means. Some say it’s the number of chemicals in cannabis that make it feel “high”. Others say it’s the number of nerve fibers in the human body that make people feel “high” too. But what it is most commonly associated with is the culture behind it. That’s because the date has become synonymous with the subculture of people who smoke.

Why 4/20?

One of the biggest theories about the origins of 420 is that it’s the code used to arrange a meeting in the “420 Tribe”, the group that arranged the dates for the meetings.

There’s also a theory that the date 420 is based on George Mallory’s climbing record, which is set at 49 days, 20 hours, and 20 minutes. The “420” is the time spent climbing alone before Mallory’s partner was ready to climb with him.

The Downsides of Celebrating 4/20

There is a downside to all of this. The day has become such a big deal that people are unintentionally promoting smoking among young people. Young people are more likely to try cannabis, and they are also more likely to become addicted to it. And the more they smoke, the more likely they are to have an adverse reaction to marijuana. In other words, the day celebrates acceptance, not marijuana and its uses.

Celebrating 4/20 not only promotes and condones the negative aspects of smoking, but it also promotes driving while high. It is a federal offense to drive while under the influence of marijuana.

Trust Oasis Recovery

April 20th is famously known as “420”, but what exactly is it, and why is it so special? Though the significance of “420” may be lost on many, it’s certainly worth exploring. 

If you feel that you or a loved one may be struggling with substance abuse, you are not alone. Substance abuse and addiction can affect anyone. If you or a loved one are currently struggling with addiction, help is available! We encourage you to reach out to the professionals at Oasis Recovery to learn more about our personalized treatment programs and mental health services.

 Oasis Recovery was founded from firsthand experience of addiction and recovery, with a mission of providing a space where people can heal from addiction in a compassionate, creative, open-minded, and heart-centered environment. We believe recovery is always possible. Our experts work with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs. Common treatment programs include:

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
• Full-time Addiction Treatment on campus
• Aftercare Services

Contact us today for more information about how our programs and services can help you get your life back on track. You no longer have to struggle with addiction on your own. We are here to help.