420 meaning: origins and connection to cannabis

14.04.2026 488 views Gaiabis

Introduction 420 refers to a time, 4:20 p.m., and later to April 20 in cannabis culture. Here is the Waldos’ account and the distinctions that help explain the symbol.

420 is a cultural code associated with cannabis. It refers to 4:20 p.m. and to April 20, written 4/20 in the American date format. Its best-documented origin story comes from the Waldos, a group of friends from San Rafael, California.

Where did the number 420 come from?

According to the Waldos’ account, in 1971 they searched for a cannabis plot near Point Reyes using a map received from an acquaintance. They met at 4:20 p.m. by the Louis Pasteur statue at their high school. “420 Louie”, later shortened to “420”, became their code. They say they never found the plot.

The Waldos also present letters and other contemporary documents supporting their account. It is therefore more accurate to connect the symbol to this story than to give it an unsupported origin as a police code.

Why April 20?

The American spelling 4/20 gave the code a date for cultural gatherings. April 20 is now associated with events and discussions about cannabis. That does not make it a universally official day or a special permission to consume cannabis.

Does 420 have a spiritual meaning?

Symbolic interpretations can be personal. They are distinct from the historical origin described by the Waldos: a meeting time that became a shared code. The number indicates neither a product’s composition nor its effects.

What about Switzerland?

The cultural symbol does not change the rules applying to products. To understand CBD, THC and the different categories under which products are sold, see our guide to CBD in Switzerland.