New Jersey’s cannabis scene is thriving, and 2025 is shaping up to be a year packed with events where cannabis culture, community, and celebration collide. From massive trade shows to laid-back local gatherings, here’s a curated look at the state’s top cannabis-friendly events worth marking on the calendar.
Kicking off the spring, MJ Unpacked (April 29–May 1) takes over the Hard Rock Hotel in Atlantic City. This event blends industry networking with a consumer-friendly vibe, offering brand showcases, educational panels, and even a cannabis cup competition. It’s the ultimate meeting point for entrepreneurs, budtenders, and curious consumers who want to see where the market is heading.
Just a week later, Champs Trade Show (May 6–8) rolls into the Atlantic City Convention Center. Known for its colorful counterculture edge, Champs features artisan glassblowers, new smoking accessories, apparel, and live demos. It’s where the art of cannabis meets retail innovation, drawing everyone from head shop owners to creative influencers.
Closing out May, Cannademix Unity III (May 25) hits the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford. This hybrid event celebrates cannabis culture through music, art, and advocacy. Attendees can explore local vendors, take in panel discussions, and connect with advocacy groups working to shape the state’s cannabis laws. It’s an upbeat blend of entertainment and education, set in one of the most unique venues in the region.
Fast-forward to late summer, and the big shows return. NECANN New Jersey (September 5–6) is the state’s largest cannabis convention, held at the Atlantic City Convention Center. With over 200 exhibitors, dozens of educational sessions, and networking mixers, it’s the place for anyone looking to expand their knowledge or grow their cannabis business. This year’s event also debuts the NECANN Cup, spotlighting standout local cultivators and product makers.
The following weekend, the party moves north to Edison for the 420 Expo (September 12–14). This BYOC (Bring Your Own Cannabis) festival offers a mix of live music, food trucks, celebrity appearances, and vendor booths. Outdoor consumption areas create a relaxed, social atmosphere, making it a favorite for recreational consumers and medical patients alike.
Rounding out the list is Theo’s 4/19 Carnival in Franklin Park. A grassroots favorite, this community-driven event offers games, live music, vendor booths, and cannabis deals in a friendly, low-pressure setting. It’s the perfect warm-up to 4/20 celebrations and a great way to connect with local cannabis lovers.
Why these events are standouts:
- MJ Unpacked and Champs Trade Show cater to both the business-minded and culture-curious.
- Cannademix Unity III mixes art, music, and advocacy into an accessible, upbeat gathering.
- NECANN brings industry power players together while celebrating local talent through its new competition.
- 420 Expo offers one of the most open and festive consumption experiences in the state.
- Theo’s 4/19 Carnival delivers local charm and community connection.
Whether attendees are looking to learn, network, or simply enjoy a laid-back celebration, New Jersey’s 2025 cannabis-friendly events offer something for every type of consumer. The Garden State is proving it knows how to throw a party—and keep the culture growing strong.