The 420 Legend

Once upon a time, not so long ago, a group of students who called themselves the “Waldos” started a real legend. The story began at San Rafael High School in Point Reyes, California, back in 1971.

One autumn day, the “Waldos” heard from a coast worker that he was growing his own marijuana, and they wanted to find it like a treasure hunt and enjoy it. For this “hidden treasure,” the kids met every week at exactly 4:20 in the afternoon. Even though they never found the cannabis plants, the term “420” still turned out to be useful. This way, the “Waldos” could talk about weed without anyone catching on—whether they had any, and when they’d meet up to smoke.

The first official flag to celebrate 420.

But how did the term become known all over the world? One of the “Waldos’” brothers is said to be responsible for that. Back then, he was the manager of a small band led by Patrick Lesh, who later became the bassist for the legendary group “The Grateful Dead.” This connection got the “Waldos” constant access to the band’s concerts and backstage with the members. In no time, “420” caught on with the band, who then spread the term to their fans at shows all over the country. The magazine “High Times” also made “420” famous worldwide after its writers picked up the term from the band. Editor Steve Hager used “420” everywhere, and big events were launched under this name, spreading it even more around the world.

Thanks to the “Waldos,” 420 isn’t just a time of day—it’s a true legend, an official term in the Oxford English Dictionary, and an unofficial holiday.

Happy 420!

Sources

https://420waldos.com

https://www.bigfm.de/buzzhaltestelle/19583/verpasst-habt-welt-cannabis-tag-bedeutet-420