The History of 4/20 & Deals in Kensington, MD

close up image for a concept using a calendar, a cannabis bud and a black marker to write the words cannabis day

Cannabis enthusiasts across the country mark the date April 20 with intention. Some quietly, some loudly, and many with a sense of shared belonging that stretches back over five decades. 

If you’ve ever wondered what 4/20 history actually looks like, or why 420 in Kensington is starting to feel like a real occasion worth planning around, you’re in the right place. We’re here to walk you through it all, from the origin of a code word to what celebrating close to home might look like this year.

SHOP 4/20 DEALS

4: 20. The concept of the Cannabis subculture.Four-twenty culture. Watch with a cannabis leaf.

Where Did 4/20 Begin?

The origin of 4/20 traces back to 1971 in San Rafael, California. A group of high school students who called themselves “the Waldos” used “4:20” as shorthand for their after-school meetup time near a statue of Louis Pasteur at San Rafael High School. Their goal was to track down a supposed abandoned cannabis crop near Point Reyes. 

The 4/20 history that followed is, in many ways, a story about community. The term migrated into wider counterculture through connections with the Grateful Dead’s touring circle. As the band’s fans traveled from city to city, so did the phrase. 

By the early 1990s, a flyer circulating at a Grateful Dead concert invited people to gather at 4:20 p.m. on April 20 to celebrate together. Cannabis culture magazine High Times later published the flyer, and from there, April 20 became a recognized date on the cultural calendar.

420 Dispensary Deals in Kensington

We’re gearing up for an epic 4/20 celebration. Our full lineup of deals and specials will be announced soon.

Check back shortly to see the exclusive 4/20 dispensary deals in Kensington, product drops, and in-store promotions we’ll be offering for the biggest holiday in cannabis.

In the meantime, browse our menu or visit us in-store to explore our current selection.

Young woman laughing while sitting alone outside on her patio and smoking a joint

How to Prep for 4/20 in Kensington, MD

A little planning goes a long way on 420 cannabis deals days, when popular products tend to move quickly. Here’s how to get ready:

  • Shop early if you can: April 20 is consistently one of the busiest days in cannabis retail nationwide. Browsing ahead of time and knowing what you’re looking for makes the day smoother.
  • Know your format: Flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, and concentrates each offer a different experience. Starting low and going slow is always a reasonable approach, especially with products you haven’t tried before.
  • Plan responsibly: Cannabis affects coordination and reaction time, so driving after consuming isn’t safe. Celebrate with people you trust, in a space where you’re comfortable, and keep products stored securely away from kids and pets.
  • Look for what fits you and not just what’s on sale: The best 420 deals near me aren’t just the least expensive options. Clear labeling, lab-tested products, and staff who can help you understand what you’re buying are just as important as any price tag.

For those looking for 420 deals near Montgomery County, there’s something new and genuinely exciting on the horizon. Crabtree Dispensary is preparing to open its doors at 3740 University Blvd W, Kensington, MD 20895, right near the intersection of Connecticut Avenue and University Boulevard. That puts Crabtree within easy reach of Chevy Chase, Wheaton, Silver Spring, Bethesda, and Washington, D.C.

Make the Most of 4/20 in Montgomery County

420 events and sales are worth keeping on your radar as April approaches. Whether you’re a longtime cannabis enthusiast or someone stepping into this space for the first time, the spirit of the day is the same: education and celebration.

Check our website for updates on the opening and what’s coming to the menu. When Crabtree opens, the Kensington community will have something genuinely built for them.

If you have questions, Crabtree’s crew will be here to help.

SHOP 4/20 DEALS