While most major cannabis festivals bloom in warmer months, the winter season offers its own set of cozy, community-driven experiences. Across the U.S., smaller gatherings and regional showcases bring together consumers, cultivators, and brands for a more personal connection to the culture. Here are some of the best winter cannabis events worth attending.
Winter Hudson Valley Cannabis RollCall – New York
Held in mid-January, this event acts as a friendly industry mixer for New York’s emerging cannabis community. It gathers growers, processors, retailers, and service providers under one roof for an evening of networking, raffle prizes, and small-group discussions. Affordable admission and an intimate setting make it perfect for newcomers looking to meet operators in a relaxed environment.
Website: hudsonvalleycannabisrollcall.com
Canna Frost Fest – St. Louis, Missouri
Canna Frost Fest kicks off each January, bringing an indoor “winter market” vibe filled with vendors, education, and art. This event blends a trade-show atmosphere with community flavor — offering workshops, product demos, and live entertainment. For consumers, it’s a great chance to explore local flower, edibles, and accessories while engaging with small-batch producers face-to-face.
Website:Frost Canna Fest Facebook
Cannabis Carnival – Delray Beach, Florida
Florida’s Cannabis Carnival offers a warm-weather winter escape focused on medical education and wellness. The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes both patients and newcomers. Guests can attend seminars, meet doctors for card evaluations, and explore vendor booths showcasing CBD, health products, and emerging cannabis brands. It’s a great introduction for those curious about Florida’s growing medical scene.
Website: Cannabis Carnival Delray Beach
CHAMPS Trade Show – Las Vegas, Nevada
Each winter, Las Vegas hosts one of the cannabis industry’s biggest trade shows — CHAMPS. While technically a B2B event, many sessions and showcases are open to consumers. Visitors can browse glass art, vaporizers, apparel, and new product launches while meeting leaders shaping the national cannabis marketplace. For connoisseurs and entrepreneurs alike, it’s the premier event to see what’s trending for the year ahead.
Website: champstradeshows.com
Denver’s 420-Friendly Winter Scene – Colorado
Denver doesn’t rely on a single festival — it celebrates cannabis all winter long. Experiences like “Puff, Pass & Paint” art sessions, infused cooking classes, and cannabis-friendly ski tours give the Mile High City’s holiday season a creative twist. These micro-events attract locals and tourists alike, combining cannabis with culture in the most Colorado way possible.
Website: coloradocannabistours.com
Taste of Texas Hemp Cup – San Marcos, Texas
Taking place each December, the Taste of Texas Hemp Cup celebrates the state’s fast-growing hemp industry. The competition highlights premium hemp flower, oils, and infused goods, alongside live music and local vendors. It’s a welcoming, educational experience for anyone interested in the CBD and hemp markets — especially in a state where THC cannabis remains restricted.
Website: eventhi.io
Why Attend Winter Cannabis Events?
Winter events offer unique advantages that larger festivals can’t match:
- Smaller crowds, stronger connections. These gatherings allow for genuine conversations, better networking, and direct access to brand founders.
- Educational focus. Many winter events lean toward panels, workshops, and demos rather than just concerts and parties.
- Early-year innovation. New product lines and prototypes often make their debut in winter, giving attendees first looks before spring launches.
- Regional growth. In newer markets, small events help strengthen community ties and encourage collaboration between local operators and consumers.
- Indoor comfort. Winter cannabis festivals favor cozy venues, offering warmth, safety, and a break from the usual outdoor chaos.
Attendee Tips
- Check rules first. Some events are non-consumption or medical-only — review details before buying tickets.
- Bring cash and ID. Cash remains king in many markets, and age or card verification is always required.
- Plan your travel. Winter weather can complicate travel, so schedule early and pair your event with local tours or dispensary stops.
- Be intentional. Smaller gatherings mean better networking potential — come prepared with questions or business cards.
- Support local brands. Many winter fests spotlight regional entrepreneurs who rely on community participation to grow.
Even as snow falls, the cannabis world stays active — only cozier. From New York’s indoor mixers to Las Vegas’ massive trade floor and Colorado’s winter creativity, these events prove cannabis culture thrives year-round. Whether for learning, exploring, or simply celebrating with like-minded enthusiasts, winter cannabis festivals offer a refreshing mix of warmth, discovery, and green community spirit.