Anyone in the businesses of conferences, expos, and festivals learned how to pivot in 2020.
Some moved their events to virtual platforms and others simply called it quits, shelving their events in hopes the world would re-balance in 2021. Both approaches still seem to be possibilities in 2021 but there’s still plenty of uncertainty whether we might have to wait an additional year until things approach how they used to be.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is still recommended that “large gatherings be avoided, particularly those in which physical (social) distancing cannot be maintained between people who live in different households. This guidance is intended for those who are planning a large event, such as sporting events, concerts, festivals, conferences, or parades.”
Two of Washington’s more prominent cannabis events, Lemonhaze and Seattle Hempfest, have still not provided information if they will attempt live events here in 2021, but there’s no information available about virtual options either.
Another annual event, Bellingham Budfest, was planning for its July 2021 event, but in late April, organizers announced it would have to be moved to summer 2022. Although there was plenty of excitement and enthusiasm, planners said crowd requirements from the city and Port of Bellingham were too restrictive for what the event wanted to accomplish.
A multi-city weed-centric convention, CannaCon, which was first held in the Seattle area, is currently scheduled in five states in the Midwest and the South, but nothing has been scheduled for Washington.
There are a few virtual events scheduled with great line-ups for speakers and learning opportunities, which work well in the virtual world. And a smattering of live events scheduled for summer and fall, most likely hoping for a healthier populace by then.
Live event websites are generally short on details, however, possibly in preparation for a quick pivot if things swing in a less positive direction. With that in mind, here’s what appears to be happening in the world of cannabis gatherings.
Source: Spokesman
Image: Unsplashed
