Hemp festival - Estimated 40,000 attendees for the "Mary Jane" event.
At this year's hemp fair "Mary Jane," there's excitement brewing, thanks to the legalization of cannabis. "We anticipate drawing more than 40,000 attendees," shared co-founder Nhung Nguyen during a recent digital press conference. In comparison, the turnout last year was only around 25,000 people. The fair will take place from June 14 to 16 in Berlin, and due to surging interest, it's making its debut at an exhibition center - which has more than doubled in size, according to Nguyen.
Surge in Home Cultivation
With over 400 exhibitors from around the world partaking, this event is experiencing an influx of participants. Nguyen remarked on a growing trend toward home cultivation. Hence, a significant portion (over a third) of the exhibition space will showcase goods for cultivating and harvesting cannabis. There are options such as cultivating soil, hemp seeds, and even fully automated home greenhouses that can be controlled via smartphone. In addition, there will be several educational lectures, lively discussions, and live performances.
Cannabis Legalized in Germany
Germans have been legally allowed to possess up to 50 grams of cannabis at home since April 1, 2021 for those aged 18 and above, and a maximum of 25 grams of marijuana or hashish outside. While distribution and sale remain illegal, from July 1, cannabis cultivation and distribution among special club members is permissible. Three plants can be grown at home.
Hemp Fair's Growth as a Movement
"Germany is without a doubt, the Cannabis hotspot now," Nguyen stated confidently. She firmly believes that the legalization will make Germany a prominent cannabis market in Europe. The "Mary Jane" fair was initially started by Nguyen and her husband in 2016, with the aim of changing public perception about the plant.
From a "small hobby fair" for smokers, the event's audience has become impressively diverse. "Clearly, there are more than just smokers at the fair; we also draw in many non-smokers who are simply curious about the plant itself," Nguyen stated. Smoking is allowed during the fair, but only in the outdoor area. Anyone entering must be at least 18 years old.
