dispensary in queens: 5 Best Experiences to Discover Now 2025
Finding Your Perfect Queens Cannabis Shop
Dispensary in Queens options have expanded significantly, with 17 licensed adult-use cannabis shops now serving the borough. For those looking to visit a legal dispensary today, here are the top-rated options:
| Dispensary Name | Neighborhood | Special Features | Delivery? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terp Bros | Astoria | Community hub, CAURD licensee | Yes |
Queens dispensaries offer a diverse range of products including flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, concentrates, tinctures, topicals, and CBD items. All licensed shops require customers to be 21+ with valid ID, and many provide loyalty programs, delivery services, and educational resources.
I’m Jeremy Rivera, owner of Terp Bros, Astoria’s pioneering cannabis dispensary and proud CAURD licensee who transformed my past cannabis convictions into a mission-driven dispensary in Queens focused on community empowerment and second chances. My journey from adversity to entrepreneurship reflects the positive change happening across Queens’ cannabis landscape.
Dispensary in Queens: What Makes One the “Best”?
Finding the best dispensary in Queens isn’t just about who has the flashiest storefront or the most Instagram followers. It’s about substance, integrity, and genuine community connection.
When I walk around our Astoria neighborhood, I often chat with customers about what truly matters in their cannabis shopping experience. The answer is almost always the same: trust.
Trust begins with proper licensing. Every legitimate dispensary in Queens must display their New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) license. The CAURD program has been a game-changer for our borough, giving people like me—who were previously impacted by cannabis prohibition—a chance to build legitimate businesses.
“The license hanging on our wall isn’t just a piece of paper,” as I often tell first-time visitors. “It represents a promise to our community that we’re doing things the right way.”
Product variety matters tremendously too. Queens is incredibly diverse, and so are the needs of cannabis consumers. Some folks are looking for sleep support, others for creative inspiration, and many for pain relief. The best shops offer everything from traditional flower to precisely dosed edibles and targeted topicals.
Budtender expertise can make or break your experience. Our team spends hours each week in continuing education, learning about new strains, consumption methods, and the latest research. They should be able to guide both cannabis veterans and curious newcomers with equal care.
Safety testing isn’t optional in the regulated market—it’s essential. Every product on our shelves undergoes rigorous third-party testing. When you see those little lab testing symbols on packaging, they’re your assurance that what you’re getting is clean, potent, and exactly as advertised.
Age verification is strictly enforced—you must be 21+ with valid ID, no exceptions. This isn’t just legal compliance; it’s about responsible community stewardship.
Community outreach sets the truly exceptional shops apart. We regularly host educational events, partner with local artists, and engage with neighborhood initiatives. Cannabis isn’t just a product—it’s becoming part of the cultural fabric of Queens.
For cannabis health and safety information or concerns about substance use, resources like the HOPELine provide scientific research and support.
Key Factors at a Glance
When you’re exploring a new dispensary in Queens, keep an eye out for these quality markers:
- Licensing Badge: Look for that prominently displayed OCM license number
- Third-Party Lab Testing: Ask to see Certificates of Analysis for products
- Delivery Options: Convenient, compliant delivery with proper age verification
- Loyalty Perks: Programs that reward regular customers with discounts or special access
The rules for cannabis shops continue to evolve, with different standards for physical stores versus delivery services:
| Feature | Storefront Dispensary | Delivery-Only Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Location | Required | May operate from temporary location |
| Verification Decal | Must display near entrance | Digital verification required |
| Product Storage | On-site secure room | Secure transportation protocols |
| Age Verification | In-person ID check | ID verification at delivery |
| Purchase Limits | 3 oz flower equivalent per transaction | Same limits apply |
| Hours of Operation | Set by municipality | May have extended hours |
| Point of Sale | In-store transactions | Payment upon delivery |
At the end of the day, the “best” dispensary in Queens is one that balances legal compliance with genuine community care—a place where you feel both safe and welcome. As we like to say at Terp Bros, we’re not just selling cannabis; we’re cultivating community, one conversation at a time.
Five Standout Queens Dispensary Experiences
Queens is a mix of unique neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. This diversity is beautifully reflected in the borough’s cannabis dispensaries, where local character shapes each shopping experience. From artistic Astoria to busy Jamaica, these cannabis shops aren’t just retail spaces—they’re extensions of their communities.
Astoria Flagship – Local Art Meets Education
At Terp Bros in Astoria, we’ve created something that goes beyond being just another dispensary in Queens. We’ve built a vibrant community hub where cannabis culture and education come together in an authentic way. Step inside and you’ll immediately notice our walls adorned with stunning local graffiti murals—a deliberate choice that celebrates Queens’ rich artistic heritage while creating a welcoming vibe.
“An absolutely amazing experience every time I stop by!” says Bonita R., one of our regulars. “The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and takes the time to understand what I’m looking for.”
As proud CAURD licensees, social equity isn’t just a buzzword for us—it’s our foundation. Many of our team members have been directly impacted by cannabis prohibition, creating a powerful full-circle moment where those once penalized for cannabis now lead its legal, regulated sale in their own communities.
Our budtenders aren’t just salespeople; they’re educators who undergo extensive training on cannabinoids, terpenes, and consumption methods. This expertise allows them to provide thoughtful, personalized recommendations custom to each customer’s experience level and desired effects.
Located at 3610 Ditmars Blvd, we’re easily accessible throughout Astoria and beyond. Our hours (Monday–Thursday 10 AM–10 PM, Friday–Saturday 10 AM–11 PM, Sunday 11 AM–9 PM) accommodate diverse schedules, making quality cannabis accessible to all adult consumers.
More info about Terp Bros Weed Dispensary in Queens
Long Island City Experience – Modern Urban Vibe
The industrial heritage of Long Island City comes alive in the cannabis scene, where minimalist design blends with deep product knowledge. Walking into a dispensary in this neighborhood feels like entering a high-end retail experience that just happens to sell cannabis.
The express pickup services in this area are a game-changer for the busy professionals who populate this rapidly developing neighborhood. Customers can order online and zip in to collect their purchases with minimal wait times—perfect for the on-the-go lifestyle of LIC residents.
From this central location, cannabis access extends to neighboring communities including Astoria, Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Sunnyside, Woodside, Jackson Heights, Forest Hills, and Flushing—making this area a hub for cannabis access across western Queens.
Jamaica Wellness Focus – Accessibility First
In Jamaica, accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s the priority. The dispensaries in Queens serving this diverse community feature thoughtfully designed ADA-friendly layouts and employ multilingual staff, ensuring cannabis is truly accessible to all adults regardless of physical ability or language preference.
Senior discounts acknowledge the growing interest in cannabis among older adults, many of whom are exploring its potential benefits for the first time after decades of prohibition. Regular “Cannabis 101” sessions create a judgment-free space where newcomers can learn about product options, consumption methods, and responsible use practices.
These educational initiatives carry special importance in communities where cannabis stigma may persist. By creating welcoming spaces for learning and exploration, Jamaica’s dispensaries are helping to normalize cannabis as a wellness option while empowering consumers to make informed choices about their cannabis journey.
Middle Village Convenience – Speed & Coverage
Middle Village has emerged as a central delivery hub for cannabis across Queens, with dispensaries offering same-day delivery throughout the borough and beyond. This service-oriented approach makes legal cannabis accessible even to those who can’t visit a physical store due to mobility issues, busy schedules, or simple preference.
User-friendly online ordering systems make the process seamless from start to finish. Customers can browse extensive menus, place orders, and track deliveries all from their smartphones. Discreet packaging ensures privacy (no cannabis logos or obvious identifiers), while strict age verification maintains compliance with state regulations.
More info about Cannabis Delivery
Forest Hills Community Approach – Events & Workshops
Forest Hills dispensaries have acceptd the community lounge concept, creating inviting spaces where cannabis education and lifestyle integration take center stage. Their approach perfectly captures a commitment to consumer knowledge.
These spaces host a diverse calendar of events that go well beyond simple retail. From CBD yoga sessions where participants can find their center to interactive terpene tastings that explore the aromatic compounds giving cannabis its distinctive effects, these gatherings create opportunities for cannabis enthusiasts to connect while deepening their understanding of the plant.
Neighborhood partnerships with local businesses—from coffee shops to bookstores—further strengthen community ties while helping normalize cannabis in everyday life. Educational resources tackle common questions like “How much cannabis can I buy and carry in NY State?” and explore topics such as “Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid differences,” providing valuable information for both cannabis newcomers and experienced consumers alike.
Each of these dispensaries in Queens reflects the unique character of its neighborhood while maintaining the high standards of New York’s regulated cannabis market. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience, convenient delivery, or a community-centered space, Queens offers a dispensary experience to match your preferences.
How to Verify a Queens Cannabis Shop Is Legal
With the exciting growth of legal cannabis in New York, it’s crucial to know how to spot the real deal from the imposters. Every licensed dispensary in Queens must display specific verification markers that confirm they’re operating legally and safely.
The most obvious sign of legitimacy is the verification sticker or decal prominently displayed near the entrance. This isn’t just any sticker – it’s an official marker that includes the OCM logo and usually a QR code you can scan on the spot. Think of it as the “seal of approval” for cannabis shops.
“All regulated, licensed dispensaries must post the Dispensary Verification Tool near their main entrance,” states the New York Office of Cannabis Management. This isn’t optional – it’s a requirement that legitimate businesses take seriously.
The cannabis landscape in Queens is growing rapidly, with the borough now home to at least 17 of New York State’s 134 licensed adult-use dispensaries. If you’re curious about whether a shop is on the up-and-up, the OCM maintains a regularly updated database that you can check online at cannabis.ny.gov/dispensary-location-verification.
Another telltale sign of a legitimate dispensary in Queens is strict ID checking. If no one’s verifying that you’re 21 or older before you enter or make a purchase, that’s a major red flag. Legal shops take this responsibility seriously – it’s not just about following rules, it’s about being a responsible part of the community.
Purchase limits are another important indicator. Legal dispensaries strictly enforce the state limit of 3 ounces of cannabis flower (or equivalent) per transaction. If a shop lets you buy more than that, they’re breaking the law – and that should make you question what else they might be cutting corners on.
“The verification system isn’t just red tape – it’s about consumer safety,” explains Jeremy from Terp Bros. “When you shop at a licensed dispensary in Queens, you know every product has been tested for contaminants and accurately labeled for potency. That peace of mind is worth a lot.”
Be wary of counterfeit operations that try to look legitimate. These unlicensed shops might have flashy displays and lower prices, but they’re selling products that haven’t undergone proper testing and could potentially contain harmful substances. Is saving a few bucks worth the risk? We don’t think so.
Step-by-Step License Check
Verifying a legitimate dispensary in Queens is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do your own quick check:
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Scan the QR Code at the entrance, which should link directly to the OCM verification page. This confirms the shop is in the state’s official database.
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Cross-Reference the Address to make sure the physical location matches what’s listed in the OCM database. Legitimate businesses don’t play shell games with their addresses.
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Confirm CAURD Status if applicable. Many Queens dispensaries, including Terp Bros, are proud CAURD licensees – this designation can be verified through the OCM website.
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Check for License Number Display inside the store. Look for an OCM license number (like OCM-CAURD-23-000020) prominently displayed – legitimate businesses aren’t hiding their credentials.
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Verify Testing Information by asking to see Certificates of Analysis for products you’re interested in. Staff at legal dispensaries should be happy to share this information – after all, it shows they’re selling quality products.
“The Dispensary Verification Tool isn’t just bureaucracy – it’s essential consumer protection,” notes our team at Terp Bros. “When you see that verification sticker, you can relax knowing that every product on our shelves has met New York’s strict standards for safety and quality.”
Taking these simple steps ensures you’re supporting legal businesses, getting safe products, and contributing to the positive growth of cannabis culture in Queens. It’s a win-win for everyone – except the illegal operators, of course!
Shopping Tips: Products, Prices & Delivery
Walking into a dispensary in Queens for the first time can feel like entering a whole new world. With so many products lining the shelves, it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. Let’s break down what you’ll find and what you can expect to pay, so you can shop with confidence.
When you step into our Terp Bros shop in Astoria, you’ll notice several distinct product categories. Flower remains the fan favorite – those beautiful, aromatic buds that come in countless varieties. Expect to pay between $40-70 for an eighth (that’s 3.5 grams), with some special premium strains occasionally priced a bit higher. Think of it like coffee – there’s your everyday brew, and then there’s that special single-origin you might splurge on occasionally.
Don’t want to roll your own? Pre-rolls have you covered. These ready-to-enjoy joints save you the hassle and typically run $10-20 for singles, while multi-packs range from $30-60. They’re perfect for sharing at social gatherings or keeping on hand for convenience.
If smoking isn’t your thing, edibles offer a smoke-free alternative that many of our customers love. From gummies to chocolates to beverages, these treats typically cost between $20-40 per package. The best part? Every product clearly displays its dosage, so you know exactly what you’re getting. Edibles take longer to kick in but generally provide longer-lasting effects.
For those seeking discretion, vapes provide a nearly odorless option that’s easy to use. Cartridges generally cost $40-70, while all-in-one disposable pens range from $25-50. They’re incredibly popular with our customers who value convenience and subtlety.
More experienced consumers often gravitate toward concentrates like wax, shatter, and live resin. These high-potency options start around $50-60 per gram, with premium live rosins sometimes fetching $100 or more. These aren’t for beginners, but they offer an entirely different experience for those ready to explore.
We also carry a wide range of CBD products and topicals for folks interested in potential therapeutic benefits with minimal or no psychoactive effects. These range widely in price depending on their formulation and strength.
Can’t make it to our Astoria location? No worries! Our delivery service brings our products right to your door throughout Queens. Many customers appreciate this convenience, especially during bad weather or busy workweeks. While some dispensaries require minimum orders between $50-100 for delivery, we often run promotions with reduced or waived delivery fees. You can check our current delivery terms at Online Ordering.
When budgeting for your cannabis purchase, don’t forget about taxes. New York adds between 13-20% in combined state cannabis taxes, local taxes, and social equity fees. These funds support important community reinvestment programs, but they do impact your final bill.
Looking to save a few bucks? Keep an eye out for our budget bundles and daily deals. We regularly offer special pricing on certain days of the week and package deals that give you more bang for your buck. Our customers particularly love our “Terp Tuesday” specials and weekend bundle deals.
Navigating Menus & Daily Deals
Most dispensary in Queens locations, including Terp Bros, offer user-friendly online menus that make finding your perfect product much easier. You can filter by product type, desired effect, or potency level before you even step foot in our store.
Understanding THC and CBD ratios helps tremendously when selecting products. Products with higher THC percentages typically produce stronger psychoactive effects—that “high” feeling—while CBD-dominant items offer potential therapeutic benefits with minimal intoxication. Not sure what’s right for you? Our budtenders love helping customers find their sweet spot.
Don’t forget to mention if it’s your first visit! We offer first-time customer discounts of 15% off your initial purchase. It’s our way of welcoming you to the Terp Bros family and encouraging you to explore what legal cannabis has to offer.
For our regular visitors, our Terp Perks Club rewards your loyalty with points on every purchase. These points can be redeemed for discounts on future shopping trips. But it’s more than just savings—members receive early notifications about new product arrivals, exclusive event invitations, and educational content that deepens your cannabis knowledge.
“Our loyalty program connects like-minded people who appreciate quality cannabis,” explains Jeremy, our founder. “It’s about creating a community where members feel valued and informed, not just another transaction.”
Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur or a curious first-timer, our team at Terp Bros is dedicated to helping you steer the exciting world of legal cannabis in Queens. We believe everyone deserves a personalized experience that meets their needs, preferences, and budget.
Staying Connected: Deals, Drops & Community Events
The cannabis scene in Queens is always evolving, with new products hitting shelves and community events popping up regularly. Staying in the loop means you’ll never miss out on the good stuff – whether that’s a limited-edition strain drop or a neighborhood workshop.
At Terp Bros, we’ve made it super easy to keep our community informed about what’s happening in our Astoria shop and beyond.
“I signed up for text alerts from Terp Bros and scored 20% off during their flash sale last month,” shares Maria, a regular customer. “The texts come just often enough to keep me informed without being annoying.”
App notifications have become the go-to for many cannabis enthusiasts. These handy alerts ping your phone when new products arrive or when there’s a special promotion happening. Most dispensary apps tie directly into loyalty programs, making it easy to see how close you are to that next reward.
SMS clubs work similarly but don’t require downloading an app. Simply opt in with your phone number in-store or online, and you’ll receive text updates about deals and product drops. It’s perfect for those quick “just dropped: limited batch of premium flower” alerts that might sell out quickly.
Newsletter sign-ups offer a more comprehensive cannabis experience. These emails typically include educational content, detailed product spotlights, and upcoming event calendars. They’re perfect for diving deeper into cannabis culture and learning about new consumption methods or strain profiles.
“Our newsletter isn’t just promotional – it’s educational,” explains our community manager at Terp Bros. “We include terpene profiles, consumption tips, and stories from our community because we believe informed consumers have better experiences.”
Social media follows are essential for seeing the visual side of cannabis culture. Through platforms like Instagram, you can get a feel for a dispensary’s vibe, see new products as they’re unboxed, and catch live updates from community events. Following your favorite dispensary in Queens on social media gives you a window into their world beyond the retail counter.
Neighborhood festivals have increasingly acceptd cannabis education components, creating spaces where curious community members can learn more in a welcoming environment. From street fairs in Astoria to cultural celebrations in Jamaica, these events help normalize cannabis while strengthening community bonds.
Responsible use messaging runs through all these communications. The best dispensaries balance excitement about cannabis with education about consumption, dosing guidelines, and potential effects. This commitment to consumer safety reflects the industry’s evolution from prohibition to responsible regulation.
At Terp Bros, our community events celebrate Queens’ incredible diversity while making cannabis education accessible to everyone. We’ve hosted everything from local artist showcases featuring Astoria’s graffiti legends to cooking workshops exploring cannabis-infused international cuisines that reflect our neighborhood’s cultural mix.
“Last month’s terpene tasting event at Terp Bros completely changed how I shop for cannabis,” says Tomas, who attended one of our recent workshops. “Now I understand why certain strains make me feel the way they do – it’s not just about THC percentage!”
The best way to stay in the loop? Sign up for multiple channels. BE NOTIFIED by joining Terp Bros’ text club, following our social accounts, and subscribing to our newsletter. Each platform offers different benefits, and together they create a complete picture of what’s happening in Queens’ cannabis community.
By connecting with your neighborhood dispensary in Queens, you’re doing more than just securing deals on your favorite products – you’re becoming part of a growing community that’s reshaping cannabis culture throughout New York. From product education to neighborhood advocacy, these connections run deeper than transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dispensaries in Queens
What ID and age are required to buy cannabis?
You need to be at least 21 years old to visit a dispensary in Queens, with no exceptions. When you arrive, have your government-issued photo ID ready – this could be your New York driver’s license, an out-of-state license, passport, or military ID.
Make sure your ID isn’t expired and clearly shows your photo and birthdate. We’ll check it carefully at the door or register – it’s one of our most important responsibilities.
“At Terp Bros, we take age verification seriously,” explains our team. “It’s not just about following rules – it’s about keeping cannabis in adult hands and protecting our community’s youth.”
Can tourists purchase from a dispensary in Queens?
Absolutely! If you’re visiting New York, you’re welcome at any dispensary in Queens as long as you’re 21+ with valid ID. There’s no New York residency requirement to shop with us.
Just keep in mind a few consumption guidelines while enjoying our city. You can enjoy cannabis wherever tobacco smoking is allowed, but not in schools, workplaces, inside vehicles (even parked ones), or on federal property.
And a friendly reminder – never take cannabis across state lines or onto planes, as this violates federal law, regardless of where you’re headed.
Many Queens dispensaries, including ours, are conveniently located near tourist areas and hotels. The same purchase limits apply to everyone – up to 3 ounces of flower (or equivalent) per transaction.
How much cannabis can I legally possess after a single visit?
New York law allows adults to possess up to 3 ounces (85 grams) of cannabis flower or 24 grams of concentrates. This is also the maximum amount you can buy in a single trip to a dispensary in Queens.
Different products count toward this limit in different ways:
– 1 gram of concentrate equals about 3.5 grams of flower
– A standard 10mg THC edible counts as about 0.02 grams of flower
– A typical 0.5g vape cartridge equals roughly 1.75 grams of flower
Our point-of-sale system tracks these equivalencies to keep your purchase legal, but ultimately, it’s your responsibility to stay within limits when in public.
At home, you can store up to 5 pounds (2.27 kilograms) of cannabis, though this should be secured properly and kept away from minors.
What types of payment do Queens dispensaries accept?
Cash remains king at most dispensary in Queens locations due to ongoing federal banking restrictions. Many shops, including Terp Bros, have ATMs on-site for your convenience.
Some dispensaries offer workaround payment solutions that allow debit card transactions, typically processed as cashless ATM withdrawals with a small fee (usually $3-5).
Credit cards generally aren’t accepted because of federal banking regulations, though this is gradually changing as specialized payment solutions emerge.
“We’re always working to make paying easier,” notes our Terp Bros team. “While cash is still simplest, we understand not everyone carries it these days, which is why we’re exploring additional options.”
What should first-time dispensary visitors know before going?
Your first visit to a dispensary in Queens combines elements of a pharmacy, boutique shop, and educational space. Here’s how to make it great:
Bring valid ID – you won’t get past the door without proof you’re 21+. Come with questions, as our budtenders love to educate, not just sell. Think about your goals – are you seeking relaxation, creativity, pain relief, or something else?
Set a budget before you arrive, as cannabis products range widely in price. Allow extra time for your first visit, as you’ll likely want to learn about different products. Don’t forget to ask about first-time customer discounts – many shops, including ours, offer special pricing for newcomers.
“Your first dispensary visit is about more than just buying something,” our customer education specialist explains. “It’s your opportunity to learn about cannabis, find what works for your body, and start your journey with confidence.”
How do I know if a product is right for me?
Finding your perfect cannabis match means considering your experience level, desired effects, how you prefer to consume, and any sensitivities you might have.
At Terp Bros and other quality dispensary in Queens locations, our budtenders are trained to ask helpful questions: Are you new to cannabis or experienced? What effects are you hoping for? Do you prefer smoking, vaping, edibles, or something else? How long do you want the effects to last? Do you have any health concerns or medications to consider?
Product labels provide essential information about THC and CBD percentages, dominant terpenes, and suggested usage. We also have third-party testing results available upon request that confirm cannabinoid profiles and verify product safety.
“Start a cannabis journal,” suggests our lead budtender. “Track what you try, how much you use, and how it makes you feel. This personal data becomes incredibly valuable in finding products you love.”
What community programs do Queens dispensaries support?
Many dispensary in Queens locations, especially those with social equity licenses, support local community initiatives. At Terp Bros, our community engagement includes partnering with expungement clinics to help clear cannabis-related records, hosting industry job fairs, supporting local artists through in-store displays, conducting educational workshops, and participating in neighborhood beautification projects.
The CAURD program itself represents significant community investment by prioritizing licenses for justice-involved individuals and nonprofits serving communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition.
“Our business is built on community reinvestment,” emphasizes our founder. “We’re committed to ensuring that communities most harmed by prohibition are first to benefit from legalization.”
By shopping at licensed dispensaries, particularly those with CAURD designation, you directly support these community initiatives and contribute to a more equitable cannabis industry.
How can I learn more about cannabis products and their effects?
Education is central to what we do at reputable dispensaries in Queens. For those wanting to deepen their cannabis knowledge, we offer in-store consultations with knowledgeable budtenders for personalized guidance. Watch for educational events, workshops, and tasting events hosted by dispensaries throughout the borough.
Many shops maintain blogs and educational content on their websites. Don’t hesitate to ask for detailed information about specific products and their typical effects. Learning about cannabinoid and terpene profiles can help you understand how different compounds contribute to various effects.
At Terp Bros, we offer regular educational sessions covering everything from basic cannabis science to specific applications like cooking with cannabis or understanding terpene profiles. These events welcome both customers and community members.
“Knowledge is the foundation of a positive cannabis experience,” notes our education coordinator. “When you understand the plant, its effects, and how to consume responsibly, you’re empowered to make choices that truly benefit your wellbeing.”
