Green Wednesday: The Cannabis Shopping Day Before Thanksgiving
Black Friday is often recognized as the busiest shopping day of the year, but there’s a cannabis counterpart that’s gaining popularity: “Green Wednesday,” which falls on the eve of Thanksgiving.
Despite some health concerns, reports indicate that this day is now the second most active for cannabis sales, just behind April 20. Many dispensaries are offering significant discounts on items like pre-rolls, edibles, and other products which drive up sales.
According to Dutchie, a major e-commerce platform for cannabis, sales on the day before Thanksgiving last year saw an impressive 91% increase compared to an average Wednesday. Customers spent about 9% more compared to previous weeks, with New York dispensaries reporting medical baskets exceeding $106.
Spencer Scott, Dutchie’s chief revenue officer, noted that while April 20 is well-known, Green Wednesday is swiftly becoming a key holiday for cannabis enjoyment and business. He anticipates that as more people shift from alcohol to cannabis, this day will only continue to gain traction.
A California dispensary called Catalyst Cannabis referred to Green Wednesday as a pre-holiday pilgrimage for cannabis enthusiasts. It marks a chance for people to prepare for family gatherings and lengthy weekends. They described it as a moment to refresh before the holiday buzz begins.
This trend apparently started in the early 2010s when delivery services noticed a spike in sales around this time. Cannabis retailers then began to promote it, likening it to a cannabis-focused Black Friday.
Health Considerations
While customers are encouraged to take advantage of Green Wednesday’s deals, there are important safety tips to consider. Recommendations include knowing your dosage, staying hydrated, and ensuring that cannabis products are kept away from children and pets.
Interestingly, although cannabis can relieve stress for many, recent studies suggest that it might also exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety and paranoia. Research indicates that those who initially use marijuana to cope with stress or pain could end up experiencing more significant psychological challenges later.
Moreover, a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association highlighted the association between cannabis use and increased risks of heart attack and stroke. Dr. Robert Page, president of the American Heart Association, emphasized the need for public awareness regarding cardiovascular risks related to marijuana.
As cannabis potency has risen dramatically in recent decades—from about 1% THC in the 1960s to some products reaching as high as 30% or even 95% in concentrates—it’s crucial for consumers to be informed about what they are using.
