New York State Now Allows Licensed Dispensaries to Host Temporary Cannabis Events
Licensed cannabis retailers in New York State can now apply to host temporary events, known as Cannabis Showcase Events, to engage with customers in authorized pop-ups, farmers’ markets, and public markets. The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) announced the new regulations on Monday, allowing licensed retailers, cultivators, and processors to meet consumers at community events while maintaining strict safety standards and age restrictions.
According to John Kagia, Acting Executive Director of the OCM, these events will provide flexibility for businesses while preserving public health safeguards and local authority. “Cannabis Showcase Events expand opportunity within New York’s regulated market in a thoughtful and deliberate way while keeping the guardrails firmly in place,” Kagia said.
To host a Cannabis Showcase Event, licensed dispensaries must meet certain requirements, including obtaining written approval from the host municipality, submitting an advance application to the OCM, and ensuring age verification to prevent entry or sales to anyone under 21. These regulations are outlined in Part 117 of the Cannabis Control Board regulations.
