Indiana’s 4/20 Blues: Why Indianapolis Ranks Low for Cannabis Celebrations

^{Filed Under: High Hopes, Low Supply}

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As April 20th, the annual beacon for cannabis enthusiasts, approaches, Indianapolis locals find their celebration options limited. Known universally among the cannabis community as 4/20, this day symbolizes more than just casual use—it’s a time for advocacy and enjoyment. However, in Indianapolis, the vibe is stifled by stringent regulations and scarce resources.

While a study by the American Addiction Centers reveals a national preference for marijuana over alcohol, with many Americans favoring its legalization, Indianapolis lags behind. In a recent ranking by Real Estate Witch and Leafly, the city placed 41st out of the 50 largest U.S. cities for cannabis friendliness. This evaluation considered factors like legal status, availability of dispensaries and doctors, and the cost of cannabis.

Currently, Indiana remains a holdout in the movement toward marijuana legalization, with neither medical nor recreational use approved. This positions Indianapolis far behind the 37 states with medical legalization and the 24 (plus D.C.) that also allow recreational use.

Retailer and medical support in Indianapolis are sparse, with only 0.3 marijuana retailers per 100,000 residents and virtually no medical cannabis doctors available. The prices reflect this scarcity; a high-quality ounce costs about $335, significantly more than in more cannabis-friendly cities.

Comparatively, cities like Denver and Portland thrive with robust cannabis cultures supported by favorable laws and an abundance of dispensaries. Meanwhile, Indianapolis shares the bottom ranks with cities like Louisville and Memphis, where similar restrictions dampen the 4/20 spirit.

4/20 originated in the 1970s in California, emerging from a crusade for decriminalization and legalization akin to Michigan’s Hash Bash. What started as localized protests has burgeoned into a national day of recognition and celebration. However, for Indianapolis residents, 4/20 serves as a reminder of the legal and cultural barriers that still exist, making it a less joyous occasion and more a day of reflection—and perhaps a renewed call to action.

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