The phrase “4:20” has become a cultural symbol and rallying cry for cannabis enthusiasts worldwide, but its origins are rooted in a specific moment in history. To understand the significance of 4:20, we need to travel back to the early 1970s in San Rafael, California.
A group of high school friends who called themselves “The Waldos” were the original architects of the 4:20 phenomenon. Their journey began in 1971 when they stumbled upon a treasure map leading to an abandoned cannabis crop in the nearby Point Reyes Peninsula. The Waldos agreed to meet after school at 4:20 p.m. to search for the elusive plants. They would gather by the school’s statue of chemist Louis Pasteur, and “4:20 Louis” became their code for the meetup. Eventually, they shortened it to simply “4:20.”
Although the Waldos never found the hidden cannabis crop, their code word endured as a discreet way to discuss their favorite pastime without alerting parents or teachers. Over time, the term gained traction, thanks in part to The Waldos’ connections to the burgeoning Grateful Dead community. The iconic rock band, known for its countercultural appeal and cannabis-friendly ethos, helped popularize the term within its expansive network of fans.
By the 1990s, “4:20” had transcended its humble beginnings to become a universal symbol for cannabis culture. Its widespread recognition was cemented when High Times magazine, a leading publication in the cannabis world, embraced the term. High Times even credited The Waldos as the originators of 4:20, solidifying the connection between the phrase and cannabis advocacy.
Today, 4:20 has taken on a life of its own. April 20th (4/20) is celebrated as an informal holiday for cannabis enthusiasts around the globe, marked by events, rallies, and gatherings that advocate for legalization and the normalization of cannabis use. At 4:20 p.m. on that day, many partake in communal celebrations to honor the plant and its culture.
While 4:20 started as a simple meeting time among friends, it has grown into a powerful symbol of community, activism, and the enduring spirit of counterculture. Its history reminds us that even the smallest moments can spark movements, connecting people across generations and borders through a shared love of cannabis.