Legendary actor and cannabis advocate Tommy Chong made an appearance at the annual Mile High 420 Festival in Denver’s Civic Center Park, drawing thousands of attendees. Chong’s message was a call to share your stash and meet new people, embodying the spirit of the marijuana holiday. This celebration comes at a time when questions are being raised about the health consequences and safety of consuming cannabis in Colorado.
Recent investigations have shed light on the potential risks associated with the industry, from the potency of the drug to the presence of dangerous chemicals like pesticides and mold. Despite regulations in place to monitor testing facilities, contaminated marijuana has still made its way onto dispensary shelves, leading to health and safety recalls. The 420 festival, rooted in California in 1971, has become a popular event in Denver, featuring a lineup of both established and emerging artists.
Colorado state laws prohibit smoking cannabis in public spaces, but enforcement is typically lax at the festival grounds. This year marked the first time that an entry fee was charged for the Mile High 420 Festival, signaling a shift in the event’s organization. Overall, the festival served as a celebration of cannabis culture while also raising awareness about the need for greater regulation and oversight in the industry.
