As the cannabis industry continues to flourish, staying updated with the latest trends, networking opportunities, and industry insights is crucial for businesses and enthusiasts alike. One of the best ways to achieve this is by attending the top cannabis conferences across the United States. These events offer a unique platform to learn from industry leaders, discover new products, and connect with like-minded individuals.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top cannabis conferences you should attend in 2024, providing you with everything you need to know to make the most of these invaluable experiences.
Why attend Cannabis Conferences?
Cannabis conferences are more than just a gathering of industry professionals; they are a hub of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity. Here’s why attending these events should be on your radar:
- Networking: Meet industry leaders, potential business partners, and like-minded individuals.
- Education: Gain insights from expert panels, workshops, and keynote speakers.
- Innovation: Discover the latest products, services, and technologies in the cannabis industry.
- Regulatory updates: Stay informed about the latest legal developments and compliance requirements.
- Market trends: Understand emerging trends that can shape the future of your business.
Top Cannabis Events from August to December 2024
As the cannabis industry continues to expand, the latter half of the year is packed with crucial conferences that can help you stay ahead of the curve. Here are the must-attend cannabis events from August to December 2024:
1. 2024 Cannabis Conference
- Date: August 20-22, 2024
- Location: Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada
About: The Cannabis Conference is renowned for offering the highest level of education for dispensary and cultivation professionals worldwide. It’s the only industry conference dedicated solely to plant-touching cannabis companies, providing attendees with the chance to meet the industry’s top minds and explore the latest technology, services, and solutions.
2. NECANN New Jersey
- Date: September 6-7, 2024
- Location: Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, New Jersey
About: NECANN New Jersey is a pivotal event on the East Coast, featuring a wide range of exhibitors and speakers. This event offers an excellent opportunity to connect with industry professionals in Atlantic City, a location known for its vibrant entertainment scene.
3. NECANN Michigan
- Date: September 20-21, 2024
- Location: Devos Place, Grand Rapids, Michigan
About: NECANN Michigan is a leading event for cannabis professionals in the Great Lakes region. It provides valuable networking and educational opportunities in Grand Rapids, a city celebrated for its vibrant arts scene and breweries.
4. Lucky Leaf Albuquerque
- Date: September 27-28, 2024
- Location: Albuquerque Convention Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
About: Lucky Leaf Albuquerque is an essential event for cannabis industry insights in the Southwest. Albuquerque, known for its unique cultural blend and stunning landscapes, hosts this event at the Albuquerque Convention Center, a venue famed for its modern amenities and expansive spaces.
5. Hall of Flowers Santa Rosa
- Date: September 27-28, 2024
- Location: Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Santa Rosa, California
About: Hall of Flowers Santa Rosa is a premier event for cannabis brands and networking in Northern California. Held at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, this event offers a prime opportunity to connect with licensed retail buyers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.
6. Grow Up Alberta
- Date: September 29-October 1, 2024
- Location: Edmonton Convention Centre, Edmonton, Alberta
About: Grow Up Alberta focuses on cannabis cultivation and industry trends. Edmonton, known for its vibrant cultural scene and festivals, hosts this event at the Edmonton Convention Centre, a facility celebrated for its stunning river valley views and sustainable design.
7. CannaCon Cleveland
- Date: October 3-4, 2024
- Location: Huntington Convention Center, Cleveland, Ohio
About: CannaCon Cleveland is a significant event in the Great Lakes cannabis market, showcasing industry leaders and innovations. Cleveland, known for its rich musical history and arts, hosts this event at the Huntington Convention Center, a modern venue in the city’s downtown.
8. NECANN Connecticut
- Date: October 4-5, 2024
- Location: XL Center, Hartford, Connecticut
About: NECANN Connecticut is a pivotal event for the New England cannabis community, offering a platform for industry growth and networking. Hartford, rich in history and cultural heritage, hosts this event at the XL Center, a venue known for its central location and versatile event spaces.
9. NECANN New York
- Date: October 25-26, 2024
- Location: NYS Fairgrounds – Center of Progress Building, Syracuse, New York
About: NECANN New York is a key gathering for cannabis industry stakeholders in the Northeast, featuring a variety of exhibits and sessions. Syracuse, known for its educational institutions and cultural richness, hosts this event at the NYS Fairgrounds, a venue famous for its large-scale events and historical significance.
10. MJBizCon
- Date: December 3-6, 2024
- Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
About: As the largest cannabis business conference globally, MJBizCon is a must-attend event. It offers a comprehensive program covering every aspect of the cannabis industry, from cultivation to retail and beyond. Attendees can expect to connect with over 30,000 industry professionals and explore the latest products and innovations from 1,400+ exhibitors.
Key takeaways from Cannabis Conferences
To help you better plan your conference experience, here’s a table summarizing the top cannabis conferences in 2024:
| Conference Name | Date | Location | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Cannabis Conference | August 20-22, 2024 | Las Vegas, Nevada | Dispensary and cultivation professionals |
| NECANN New Jersey | September 6-7, 2024 | Atlantic City, New Jersey | East Coast cannabis market |
| NECANN Michigan | September 20-21, 2024 | Grand Rapids, Michigan | Great Lakes region cannabis industry |
| Lucky Leaf Albuquerque | September 27-28, 2024 | Albuquerque, New Mexico | Southwest cannabis market |
| Hall of Flowers Santa Rosa | September 27-28, 2024 | Santa Rosa, California | Northern California cannabis brands |
| Grow Up Alberta | September 29-October 1, 2024 | Edmonton, Alberta | Cannabis cultivation and industry trends |
| CannaCon Cleveland | October 3-4, 2024 | Cleveland, Ohio | Great Lakes cannabis market |
| NECANN Connecticut | October 4-5, 2024 | Hartford, Connecticut | New England cannabis community |
| NECANN New York | October 25-26, 2024 | Syracuse, New York | Northeast cannabis industry |
| MJBizCon | December 3-6, 2024 | Las Vegas, Nevada | Comprehensive cannabis industry coverage |
Conclusion
The latter half of 2024 is packed with cannabis events that offer invaluable opportunities to network, learn, and grow your business. From major conferences like MJBizCon to regionally focused events like NECANN, these gatherings are essential for anyone looking to stay at the forefront of the cannabis industry. Be sure to plan ahead and take full advantage of the knowledge and connections you’ll gain at these events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I bring to a cannabis conference?
Bring plenty of business cards, a notebook or device for taking notes, comfortable clothing, and an open mind ready to learn and network.
Are cannabis conferences worth the investment?
Absolutely. The knowledge, connections, and opportunities you gain can significantly outweigh the cost of attendance.
Can I attend cannabis conferences if I’m new to the industry?
Yes! Cannabis conferences are an excellent way for newcomers to learn about the industry and make valuable connections.
How do I stay updated on upcoming cannabis conferences?
Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow key cannabis organizations on social media, and regularly check event websites.
Can I attend cannabis conferences virtually?
Some conferences offer virtual attendance options. Check the event’s official website for more details.