For many cannabis enthusiasts, holidays like 4/20 (April 20th), 7/10 (July 10th, the “Dab Day”), and Green Wednesday (the day before Thanksgiving) are circled on the calendar. These dates have become retail events that rival Black Friday in energy and excitement. Shoppers often expect deep discounts, exclusive product launches, and a buzzing community atmosphere. But with all that hype comes packed parking lots, crowded stores, and lines that can stretch out the door. That leaves consumers asking: is it worth the hassle, or should they skip the rush?

Industry data helps answer the question. According to Headset, a cannabis analytics company, Green Wednesday consistently ranks among the top sales days of the year, with revenue often second only to 4/20. The popularity of 7/10 has also skyrocketed as concentrates and vape products gain traction, especially among younger buyers. Retailers lean into the excitement by offering limited-time bundles, flash discounts, and product drops that aren’t available any other day.

For many consumers, these rare releases are the main draw. The exclusivity fuels a “fear of missing out” factor—skip the big day and you may miss a once-a-year product drop from brands like Cookies, Stiiizy, or popular local cultivators. In that sense, the wait becomes part of the ritual, similar to sneakerheads lining up for a hot release. The community atmosphere adds to the appeal, with dispensaries often hosting music, giveaways, or pop-up experiences.

Still, the downsides are real. Long waits can eat up half a day, popular items may sell out quickly, and parking can feel like a competition of its own. Some shoppers have shared in Leafly surveys that they’d rather shop the day before or after, when many dispensaries extend promotions but crowds die down. Increasingly, retailers are stretching holiday sales across multiple days or weekends, softening the pressure on those who don’t want to stand in line.

Technology also plays a role. Online ordering and express pickup now let shoppers secure deals ahead of time and simply grab their order, avoiding the chaos inside. In some markets, delivery services even extend holiday discounts, giving customers the option to enjoy savings without ever leaving home.

So, should shoppers avoid these cannabis holidays? The answer depends on priorities. For those who thrive on exclusivity, live drops, and the energy of the crowd, the wait is worth it. For those who value convenience, shopping off-peak while still catching extended deals may be the smarter move. Either way, today’s cannabis market offers more flexibility than ever, letting consumers choose between the thrill of the rush or the comfort of calm.