Amsterdam Cannabis Cup
The chief editor of the High Times magazine, Steven Hager, started this event in 1987. So it has been held for more than 30 years. That is enough time to fine tune organization and build a tradition. The Amsterdam Cannabis Cup usually takes the same format as those before, with experts showcasing their latest strains, celebrity guests and of course music.
Amsterdam Cannabis Cup dates
The Amsterdam Cannabis Cup usually coincides with Thanksgiving in the USA, running around November 24 - 26. However in 2018 it has been held in the middle of summer on 13th to 15th of July.
Arriving in Amsterdam a few days before the event is a good idea. Also getting to the pre-registration event in order to avoid the long queues that plague the Cannabis Cup as much as any large international event.
Accommodation near Cannabis Cup
With event like this it is important to be accommodated closeby. The Cannabis Cup takes place mostly at the Melkweg culture centre. Use the form below to get a list of nearby hotels, hostels, apartments and even houseboats.
Accommodation near Cannabis Cup via Booking.com
The program of Cannabis Cup
There is always an opening night party and host parties with different acts playing during the next days. The event finishes up with the Cannabis Cup Awards show presenting the results of the competition as voted on by holders of judges passes.
Cannabis Cup legal issues
The Cannabis Cup had to also endure some trouble. Amsterdam city officials would like to present other sides of this beautiful city more than the marijuana consumption. Therefore there have been instances where Cannabis Cup events were cancelled and there was even a police raid. Attendees should obey some rules even at an event like this. For example smoking only at designated areas.
Simmilar events
The High Times Cannabis Cup is not the only event of this type in Amsterdam. Events of simmilar kind include the Unity Cup and the Elite Cup.
Cannabis Cups on the other side of the world
With recent legalization of marijuana in the USA there have been Cannabis Cups organized around this colorful country too. Past events were in Denver, Michigan, Seattle and of course California.
The Cannabis Cup expo
The Cannabis Cup Expo usually takes place at the RAI conference centre and Melkweg club. Experts from growing companies and seed companies are present to talk about cultivation and care of plants. Expert advice from the hosts of the party, High Times, will also be available in the form of resident gurus.
The Cannabis Cup Expo is open every day of the event from noon.
Nearby attractions
The events at Melkweg are surely going to be a blast. But checking out the surrounding area is definitely worth a while. For example Vondelpark is just around the corner. Then museums - Rijksmuseum for history and Stedelijk for art. Also Van Gogh House. The Heineken Brewery tour is a must. And finally, the districts of Jordaan and Red Light District.
Counterculture Hall of Fame
A worthy person is inducted into the High Times Counterculture Hall of Fame every year. Inductees include stars like Bob Marley, Louis Armstrong, William S. Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, Bob Dylan, Tommy Chong, Cheech Marin, Peter Tosh and others.
Judges Passes
One of the most desired ways to take part in the Cannabis Cup is with a judges pass that allows you to have your say as to what the best strains of marijuana on offer are. Passes can be bought online for approximately $280 and allow holders to mark their impressions of each strain they try to be compiled and used to decide the best strains of the show. Unfortunately, judges passes do not entitle you to free marijuana or hash, but there are many stalls in the expo offering free samples anyway.
Amsterdam nightlife ticket
It is definitely worth to consider this nightlife ticket. It will most likely save you time and money. For 7 days you get free entrance to Amsterdam clubs, free shots, beers & cocktails, lazertag & bowling, free UBER and much more. Go have a look.
Marijuana museum
Amsterdam is a city with many fascinating museums. One of them is The Hash, Marijuana and Hemp Museum. It makes great sense to visit it when attending The Amsterdam Cannabis Cup.
Cannabis Cup location on the map
The Cannabis Cup takes place mostly at the Melkweg culture centre. You can find it at the centre of the map below.