From Winter Slowdown to Industry Go-Time

March is settling in, and the cannabis community is starting to move again.

Across the Northeast, operators, advocates, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts are coming together for meetups, education, and industry conversations. These gatherings are where ideas get shared, partnerships form, and the future of the industry takes shape.

Whether you're looking to learn something new, meet the people shaping the space, or just stay connected to what’s happening around you, there’s a lot worth showing up for this week. Here’s what’s happening.

1. NYC LEASE March Workshop - New York, NY
   An informational workshop connecting cannabis licensees with vacant storefront opportunities and commercial leasing resources across NYC.

2. CB2 Cannabis Licensing Committee Meeting - New York, NY
   A public committee meeting covering cannabis licensing updates and discussions impacting Manhattan’s local cannabis landscape.

3. Maine Cannabis Expo - Spring Session 2026 - Augusta, ME

   A family-friendly expo featuring exhibitors, live music, patient perks, raffles, and medical-focused programming.

4. Cannabis Community Education with Nanticoke at Canterra - Buffalo, NY

   A free, in-person educational session exploring cannabis science, effects, and community Q&A in a relaxed setting.

High Functioning Podcast

Now Streaming: Building a Cannabis Dining & Yoga Empire | Sam Kanter on High Functioning

How do you successfully juggle three different companies at the same time? In this episode of the High Functioning podcast, host Jason Reposa sits down with Samantha (Sam) Kanter, a powerhouse entrepreneur who runs Sam Canter Events alongside two distinct cannabis brands.

Sam pulls back the curtain on what it takes to manage an event agency for over 13 years while pivoting to build businesses in the fast-paced, highly regulated cannabis space. From her unique productivity workflows (sometimes you just need Bravo in the background!) to the real-time challenges of sourcing the right manufacturing partners, Sam shares the raw, unfiltered reality of life as a multi-business founder. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an event planner, or operating in the cannabis industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights on scaling, delegating, and maintaining your sanity.

🎧 Full Episodes: highfunctioning.show
🔔 Subscribe: tr.ee/highfunctioningsubscribe
🎙️ Listen on Spotify: tr.ee/highfunctioningspotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts: tr.ee/highfunctioningapple

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Small bottle. Big flexibility. Fast-acting effects wherever you go.

Find it at select Massachusetts dispensaries while it lasts. → Locate a Store

Monday, Mar 9 @ 6:30p - CB2 Cannabis Licensing Committee Meeting - New York, NY - FREE

A public committee meeting covering cannabis licensing updates and discussions impacting Manhattan’s local cannabis landscape. Event details>

Monday, Mar 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 6:00p - MONDAZE canna gathering 420 - Schenectady, NY - FREE

Kick off the week with a relaxed cannabis gathering featuring vendors, raffles, food, and community vibes. Event details>

Mar 12 @ 6:00p - Hudson Valley Cannabis Roll Call - Middletown, NY - $33.85

A high-energy networking night uniting growers, operators, and advocates to build relationships and momentum across the Hudson Valley cannabis economy—followed by an after-party to keep the connections flowing. Event details>

Mar 13 @ 6:00p - New York Cannabis Retail Association 4th Annual Industry Event - Brooklyn, NY - FREE

An industry-wide gathering where retailers connect directly with top-performing and emerging brands shaping New York’s cannabis landscape. Event details>

Saturday, Mar 14, 21, 28 @ 2:00p - Canna Farmers Market - FREE

A laid-back cannabis-friendly market featuring rotating vendors, food, music, and a welcoming space to shop and connect with the community. Event details>

Sunday, Mar 15, 22, 29 @ 3:00p - Canna Gathering - Schenectady, NY - FREE

A casual weekly meetup with cannabis vendors, food, and farmers-market vibes where the local community can hang out and enjoy good company. Event details>

Thursday, Mar 19 @ 6:30p - Lifted Pilates - Depew, NY - $7.18

A 50-minute guided mat Pilates session designed to help you feel energized and refreshed, with community mingling and wellness vibes beforehand. Event details>

Tuesday, Mar 24 @ 3:00p - NYC LEASE March Workshop - New York, NY - FREE

An informational workshop connecting cannabis licensees with vacant storefront opportunities and commercial leasing resources across NYC. Event details>

Thursday, Mar 26 @ 6:00p - Cannabis Community Education with Nanticoke at Canterra - Buffalo, NY - FREE

A free, in-person educational session exploring cannabis science, effects, and community Q&A in a relaxed setting. Event details>

Tuesday, Mar 10 @ 5:30p - 420 Music Bingo - New Bedford, MA - $12.51

A fun twist on bingo where music replaces numbers. Match songs on your card, enjoy the vibes, and compete for prizes. Event details>

Friday, Mar 13 @ 11:00a - St. Patrick’s Day Weekend - Hopedale, MA - FREE

A two-day in-store celebration featuring vendor pop-ups, raffles, swag, and a curated value menu alongside brand reps sharing product insights. Event details>

Friday, March 13-14 @ 11:00a - St. Paddy's Day Weekend Kick off - Cambridge, MA - Free

A Boston-style St. Patrick’s pregame featuring themed photo ops, green gear, and holiday deals before the bar crawl chaos begins. Event details>

Tuesday, Mar 24 @ 2:00p - The Commitee to Protect Cannabis Regulation - Framingham, MA

An informational gathering uniting stakeholders to discuss what’s at stake for Massachusetts’ regulated cannabis industry and how to get involved. Event details>

Sunday, Apr 9 @ 7:00p - Weeding Out The Stoned - Boston, MA - $17.85

A live comedy game show where audience members help identify the one sober contestant among a lineup of very stoned comedians through wild sobriety tests and mind games. Event details>

Saturday, Apr 18 @ 7:00p - The Hangout - Gardner, MA - Donation

A laid-back cannabis community gathering bringing together local vendors, creatives, and industry professionals for networking, music, and elevated vibes. Event details>

Saturday, Apr 18 @ 4:30p - High Vibes Cannabis Infused Sound Bath - Middleton, MA - $44.52

A 90-minute immersive 4/20 sound bath featuring crystal bowls, gongs, and calming visuals. Cannabis is optional, and guests receive a complimentary gift bag. Event details>

Apr 17 @ 11:00a - Four20 Weekend Kick off... The Herbwell Way! - Cambridge, MA

An early 4/20 presale celebration packed with music, major deals, and high-energy vibes to launch the ultimate cannabis weekend. Event details>

Apr 18 @ 12:00p - Zahara’s 4th Annual Smoked Out 420 Fest - Attleboro, MA - FREE

A full-day 420 celebration featuring live music, vendor pop-ups, exclusive specials, and giveaways at one of the region’s biggest cannabis gatherings. Event details>

Apr 18 @ 4:30p - High Vibes Cannabis Infused Sound Bath - Middleton, MA - $44.52

A 90-minute immersive sound healing experience pairing optional cannabis use with crystal bowls, gongs, and deep restorative relaxation. Event details>

Monday, Apr 20 @ 6:00p - The Munchie Masterpiece - Keyport, NJ - $65 - $85

A hands-on 4/20 charcuterie workshop where guests craft their own gourmet board while enjoying a lively sip-and-shop atmosphere. Event details>

Wednesday, Apr 22 @ 5:00p - Third Annual Professional Cannabis Industry Networking Event - Glassboro, NJ

An in-person networking event bringing together cannabis professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts to connect, share ideas, and grow their industry network. Event details>

Saturday, Mar 21, 22 @ 10:00a - Maine Cannabis Expo - Spring Session 2026 - Augusta, ME - $23.18

A family-friendly expo featuring exhibitors, live music, patient perks, raffles, and medical-focused programming. Event details>

Friday, Jul 17 @ 12:00p - The 5th Annual Maine Womens Cannabiz Symposium - Charleston, ME - $50 - $200

A three-day camp-style gathering connecting women in Maine’s cannabis industry through networking, education, and community building. Event details>

Saturday, March 14 @ 2:00p - Run It Back 90’s Edition: CT BIPOC Networking Mixer - New Haven, CT

A cannabis-friendly, 90 ’s-themed networking event bringing together BIPOC wellness and healing professionals for connection, community, and collaboration. Event details>

Monday, April 20 @ 6:00p - Puff and Pour The Official 420 Edition - Bridgeport, CT - $71.21

A luxury, cannabis-friendly candle-making experience designed for elevated 420 celebrations with music, ambiance, and grown-folk energy. Event details>

Sunday, Mar 29 @ 4:00p - Puff & Pour: A Cannabis-Friendly Candle-Making Experience - Bridgeport, CT - $71.21

A creative workshop where guests craft custom candles in a relaxed, cannabis-friendly setting with music, games, and community vibes. Event details>

Monday, Apr 20 @ 6:00p - Puff and Pour The Official 420 Edition - Bridgeport, CT - $71.21

A special 4/20 candle-making experience blending luxury ambiance, creativity, and a cannabis-friendly social atmosphere. Event details>

Thursday, Mar 12 @ 7:00p - Scenic Root Art presents: Rooted Cloud - Pulls & Paints at Infusions (BYOB) - Bethlehem, PA - $44.52

A laid-back puff-and-paint lounge night blending music, infused bites, BYOB cocktails, and creative freedom, no art skills required. Event details>

Friday, Apr 17 @ 7:30p - Weeding Out The Stoned (Happy 420 Edition) - Emmaus, PA - $22.53

A live comedy game show where stoned comedians face sobriety tests to uncover the one sober imposter. Event details>

Saturday, April 18-19 - Pennsylvania Spring Cannfest - Kutztown, PA - $ 22.85

A two-day cannabis festival featuring vendors, food, live music, and immersive brand experiences—one of PA’s biggest cannabis gatherings. Event details>

Sunday, Apr 19 @ 4:00p - Yoga Budz Extra Special - Pittsburgh, PA - $23.18

A gentle, yin-inspired yoga and sound bath experience designed for relaxation, connection, and pre-420 grounding. Event details>

Saturday, Mar 14 @ 12:00p - Groove and Gather: The Great Green Gathering Cannbis Festival (5G) - Wellington, OH - $12.51

A full-day cannabis festival featuring live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, and interactive games designed to bring Ohio’s cannabis community together to chill, connect, and celebrate. Event details>

Saturday, Mar 14 @ 1:00p - The Hemp & Cannabinoids Revolution featuring Dr. Stuart Titus - Carefree, AZ - $10 – $20

A live, expert-led deep dive into the future of hemp and cannabinoids, featuring industry insights, emerging trends, and scientific breakthroughs. Event details>

Friday, March 20-21 @ 11:00a - Kentucky Cannabis Conference & Expo - Louisville, KY - FREE

An education-first public conference focused on patient access, public health, and responsible cannabis policy. Event details>

Saturday, March 21-22 @ 10:00a - Maine Cannabis Expo - Spring Session 2026 - Augusta, ME - $23.18

A family-friendly expo featuring exhibitors, live music, patient gift bags, raffles, and medical-focused activations. Event details>

Friday, Apr 17 @ 8:30a - 6th Denver CBD OutLook - Westminster, CO - $530.05

A deep-dive conference on CBD’s next chapter, covering federal scheduling changes, hemp beverages, cannabinoid research, and emerging healthcare access. Event details>

Saturday, Apr 25 @ 11:00a - Gulf Coast Festival - Biloxi, MS - $12.51

A Mississippi-grown celebration of plant medicine, culture, and community, blending education, advocacy, and good vibes into one must-attend canna weekend for patients, professionals, and supporters alike. Event details>

Saturday, Jun 6 @ 6:00p - Cannafest NYC: Governors Ball Weekend 2026! - Brooklyn, NY

A two-day cannabis culture festival blending live music, premium brands, and community vibes during Governors Ball weekend. Event details>

Saturday, Oct 3-4 - Pennsylvania Fall Cannfest - Kutztown, PA

The fall edition of PA’s premier cann-festival returns with curated vendors, live entertainment, and community-focused activations all weekend long. Event details>

March 18 & 19 @ 10:00a - Hall of Flowers - Ventura, CA - $295

An invite-only B2B trade show connecting licensed brands, retailers, investors, and industry leaders for two days of curated networking and product discovery. Event details>

Saturday, March 21-22 @ 10:00a - Morgantown Canna Fair - Morgantown, PA - $17.85

Pennsylvania’s largest indoor cannabis festival, featuring 250+ vendors, food trucks, workshops, speakers, and alternative wellness experiences. Event details>

April 9 - Flower Expo Local: St Louis - St Louis, MO - $175.33

A focused B2B cannabis conference designed for productive networking, brand discovery, and business growth in a high-energy setting. Event details>

Saturday, Apr 11 @ 12:00p - Cleveland Canna Convention 2026 - Cleveland, OH - $12.51

A culture-forward cannabis expo spotlighting solventless rosin, terpene craftsmanship, custom glass, and the creators pushing the plant forward. Event details>

April 18 @ 10:00a - Pennsylvania Cannabis Convention 2026 - Philadelphia, PA

A two-day industry convention bringing together PA growers, dispensaries, advocates, and ancillary businesses for education, networking, and policy-forward conversation. Event details>

Friday, April 24-25, 2026 - NECANN Boston - Boston, MA - $99

The Northeast’s largest cannabis convention returns with 300+ exhibitors, 9,000+ attendees, expert sessions, and the NECANN Cup, an essential stop for anyone in the industry. Event details>

Tue, May 5-7, 2026 - MJ Unpacked - Atlantic City, NJ

MJ Unpacked is back in AC, bringing together the cannabis leaders shaping what’s next. From the Opening Reception to product slams in the Experience Hall, Cannabis Cup Awards, and the legendary Official Afterparty, every moment moves the industry forward. Event details>

Tue, May 19 @ 8:00a - VIP GROW - May 2026 - Potomac, MD - FREE

A free, three-day training program helping Veteran-owned businesses scale in government contracting, taught by industry experts. Application required. Event details>

Sat, Jun 6-7, 2026 - Lebanon Valley Summer Canna-Fest - Lebanon, PA

A massive summer cannabis festival featuring 175+ vendors, live music, food, art, and certifications—making it one of Pennsylvania’s biggest canna celebrations of the year. Event details>

Sat, June 6-7 @ 11:00a - Hemp Harvest Fest - Lebanon, PA - $11.44

A high-energy summer festival with 150+ vendors, live music, food trucks, samples, and all-day community vibes. Event details>

Wed, Jun 17-18 - Hemp Beverage Expo - Austin, TX - $267.09

Discover the nation's largest selection of hemp beverage brands—all in one place. HBE is the first executive-level B2B trade event exclusively focused on hemp beverages featuring delta-9 THC. Event details>

Wed, Jun 17 @ 10:00a - Flower Expo Massachusetts 2026 - Northampton, MA - $267.09

The Northeast’s leading cannabis trade show returns, connecting brands, buyers, and industry pros from across the region. Event details>

Thursday, June 26-27, 2026 @ 10:00a - Lucky Leaf Expo Dallas, Tx 2026 - Irving, TX - $39.28 – $499

A major cannabis business expo bringing together 100+ exhibitors, expert-led sessions, and serious networking across every corner of the industry. Event details>

Fri, Aug 7-8 - Lucky Leaf Expo Philadelphia, PA 2026 - Oaks, PA - $39.28 – $499

A two-day industry expo offering exhibitors, education, and networking, capped with an official after-party for the full Philadelphia cannabis experience. Event details>

Tue, Aug 18-19 @ 9:30a - Women in Cannabis Expo "POWERHOUSES" 2026 - Reno, NV - $108.55

A two-day expo bringing together women across the cannabis space for high-impact networking, industry insights, and professional growth. Event details>

Wednesday, Sep 9 @ 9:00a - PBC Conference 2026 - Washington, DC - $963.38

A premier two-day conference uniting the cannabis banking ecosystem—regulators, financial institutions, and operators for deep dives into payments, compliance, investing, and the future of cannabis finance. Event details>

Tue, Oct 13-15, 2026 - Kansas City, MO

MJU is coming to Kansas City! Join MJ Unpacked—the national event designed for licensed operators, researchers, and investors to discover fresh insights, make meaningful connections, and spark new opportunities to grow their businesses. Event details>

Monday, Oct 19 @ 8:00a - 10th Annual National Cannabis Research Conference - San Diego, CA - $161.90

The most comprehensive interdisciplinary cannabis research conference in the U.S., bringing together scientists, healthcare leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore cannabis science, policy, and innovation shaping the future. Event details>

Friday, December 4-6 - Terp Basel

A three-night collision of cannabis, art, music, fashion, and culture featuring live performances, immersive art, brand activations, and a global crowd shaping what’s next.

If you don't see your event listed, email us or submit the event.

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Thank you!
Jason + Karen

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DISCLAIMER: We don't vouch for any of these events. We may not even go to any of them ourselves. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not an endorsement of a company or product that may appear here. Please be careful and do your own research🌿 💐