New York, NY — On Sunday, April 20th, 2025, thousands of New Yorkers filled Washington Square Park to mark the annual 420 celebration—an exuberant gathering in support of cannabis culture, community, and advocacy. From midday until dusk, the iconic park transformed into a festival of freedom and fun, complete with clouds of smoke, music, dancing, and cannabis-themed everything.
This year’s celebration saw record turnout, as attendees from across the city and beyond descended on the park with joints, edibles, and colorful clothing. Picnics blanketed the grass, while vendors lined the walkways offering THC-infused products, handmade art, and glassware. Laughter and live music echoed through the spring air, mixing with the scent of cherry blossoms and cannabis.
Underneath the Washington Square Arch, skateboarders flipped tricks, drummers pounded rhythms, and signs calling for legalization equity waved overhead. Banners for local cannabis brands like Zizzle and NYC Kush Co. were visible throughout, giving the event a street fair energy mixed with countercultural roots.
Although 420 has evolved from a protest to a party in New York’s post-legalization era, many participants emphasized the ongoing fight for justice. Activists circulated petitions and shared expungement resources for those still affected by past criminalization.
“Today is about celebrating progress, but also remembering who’s still locked up for something that’s now legal,” said one organizer from the mic during a short rally on the fountain steps.
Law enforcement maintained a low profile, and the atmosphere remained peaceful throughout the afternoon. With weed legal and spring in full bloom, the city’s cannabis community had every reason to celebrate.
