Are You 420 Friendly? What It Really Means in Cannabis Culture

If you're reading this even if you have never smoked weed, you have without a doubt heard the term "420" before and at least have some idea about what 420 means. The term "420" is as much a buzz word for cannabis as is. It is becoming more popular as more states are legalizing cannabis for adults. 420 friendly is another new buzz word that is beginning to show up more and more especially when referring to talking to others about their recreational activities and even companies, or hotels and their cannabis use policy.

Short and sweet 420 friendly is a subtle way of expressing that a person or company is friendly or permits the use of cannabis without any adverse effects or stigma. But there are plenty of new applications for the term so read on to get with the times on how people are using the term.

Whilst it has been a thing that people have not felt comfortable talking about, in the last couple of years with the law changing, it has actually become a whole lot more mainstream. It is now possible to book "420 friendly" hotels i.e., hotels where people are allowed to smoke weed in their room or where people can smoke inside. There are many uses for the term "420 friendly" and it is worth knowing the way that people are using it these days.

Breaking Down What "420 Friendly" Really Means

For instance if you're just hanging out with someone and you wish to know if they are a cannabis smoker you can simply ask them if they're "420 friendly." If they're a smoker they will immediately understand what you're saying and probably will give you a wide smile and a head nod of approval. If they're not they will either immediately tell you no or have no clue what you're saying. They clearly have no clue what 420 friendly is.

Today 420-friendly means more than one thing, such as asking whether a person smokes. Restaurants, hotels, bars and a few other establishments will put up that they are "420 friendly," meaning that they are fine with you smoking weed without fear of being yelled at by other patrons or employees. These establishments will either have open smoking anywhere on the premises or will have a designated area for you to smoke.

One typical misunderstanding for a lot of areas though however is 420 friendly does not always mean you can openly smoke regular bongs, or joints. Some businesses will only permit cannabis edibles, or vaporizers. This is probably to reduce the smell that normal smoking releases. And in a closed space with a bunch of people smoking away it can be too much for some people. Make sure to call first and ask before arriving at a 420 friendly business so that you can know exactly what 420 friendly is to them personally.

The Origin Story of the Term "420 Friendly"

Similar to the well-known term 420 with its own legends and rumors surrounding its creation. 420 friendly is a spin-off thereof that now has a multitude of different uses when speaking and marketing. Similar to the way a restaurant or building would inform customers that they are "dog friendly", 420 friendly does the same. It was more so just a natural evolution of the term 420 that has grown as more states legalized and permitted consumption in public places. The 420 friendly terminology has become standard fare on dating websites, hotel ads and apartment rentals. Cannabis has become a lot more accepted socially in the last few years and is only continuing to gain more acceptance.

What (and Who) Can Be Considered 420 Friendly?

Is an individual 420 friendly:

As mentioned earlier, you can ask whether you are 420 friendly in a discreet manner of asking whether you use cannabis. Maybe they have a joint that they would like to share with you, and one never knows unless you ask them. There are some people who do not smoke but are okay with others smoking in their presence. It is always wise to respect other people's opinions.

Defining a True 420 Friend

Those are your favorite mate or mates you like to roll with the most. That crew of people that when you all sit down for a session it’s all laughs and good vibes. These are the type of people you need around you more in life because they only make you be your best and share good vibes.

Exploring 420 Friendly Businesses

With the legality of the marijuana business in the majority of the states, the more businesses are opening up allowing visitors to indulge in marijuana at their business. But don't just stop by and roll a joint, be sure to call first and ask what their policy is. They might only allow vape pens or edibles. If it's an outdoor business, anything goes.

Today there are some companies that are committed to being a 420 friendly environment for like-minded individuals to come and enjoy. That is true for many restaurants and bars in legalized states where they even incorporate cannabis into the experience.

420 Friendly Travel: Airbnbs & Hotels

Most Air BnB hosts in legalized states can mark if they permit use of marijuana at their place by declaring themselves 420 friendly. If renting in a non-legal state we highly discourage. It is not only illegal but also disrespectful to the host.

Most hotels and in states where it is legal or websites where one can find cannabis friendly accommodations will let you know if they allow cannabis use by stating they are 420 friendly. Chain hotels that have properties in many different states can be an issue since they likely have company-wide policy that they apply to all properties which does not allow cannabis use of any kind.

Swipe Right on Cannabis: 420 Friendly Dating Apps

It may be difficult to find a significant other and someone with the same values as you. If cannabis is a large part of your life recreationally or medically it's a good idea you get a significant other that is fine with your 420 lifestyle. Most dating apps nowadays have 420 friendly labels to inform potential matches whether you smoke or not. There are even dating apps specifically for cannabis users which then you know for certain everyone on the app is 420 friendly.

Respecting Non-420 Friendly Spaces

Not everyone uses cannabis or even may be against its use altogether and that’s okay. Everyone has the right to their own opinion and you shouldn't disrespect that. You should never violate any businesses policy or people’s residences that clearly state they are not 420 friendly. Being respectful and understanding is what will keep moving the cannabis industry forward.

To Wrap It Up

So if you hung in here with me and read all about what the beginnings and meaning of the 420 friendly slang expression is you can see that it's more than a silly catchphrase. It's a way of life and one that's becoming increasingly more mainstream. Just like you can think that you can get a beer or a vodka and tonic at any eatery, maybe one day acceptance and consumption of cannabis will be the same. Whether or not you honor the 420 culture we do appreciate that you read to determine what the meaning of 420 friendly is.