A series of events are scheduled across Australia this weekend to mark 4/20, the annual occasion celebrating cannabis culture and the plant's medicinal properties.
From picnics and markets to live music, the day is open to recreational users, patients, and anyone with an interest in cannabis education.
Ahead of the gatherings, however, organisers have issued a pointed warning to attendees.
Legalise Cannabis Victoria, one of the co-organisers of a Flagstaff Gardens event in Melbourne, has flagged an expectation that police will take a zero-tolerance stance on cannabis at this year's festivities, calling on those attending to be aware of their legal rights.
In a Facebook post promoting the annual 4/20 picnic in the park, the party outlined what police are and are not legally permitted to do, along with guidance on how attendees should conduct themselves and respond if approached by officers.
"If you want to bring cannabis to the celebration, please be aware that we are not in a position to provide legal support. There will be legal observers to inform you of your rights and keep an eye on police activities, but we advise you to exercise caution," the party said.
"If you are bringing your prescribed medicinal cannabis, please ensure it's in the container provided by your dispenser, bring a copy of your script or a letter from your doctor describing the medicinal cannabis you are taking, and have your ID with you."
Organisers also encouraged attendees to show police the "same respect we are asking for" in order to maintain a "safe and enjoyable event for all".
The post added: "This event is a chance for us to showcase to the people of Victoria and beyond that prohibition doesn't work and is harming people. We also want to see discrimination against consumers of medicinal cannabis, such as the effective ban on driving, ended."
Legalise Cannabis Victoria MP Rachel Payne called on authorities to exercise restraint during the event.
"We appeal to Victorian police and our state leaders to treat our community with respect and let us enjoy our day in the park," she said.
Australian-based British stand-up comic, writer, producer and social campaigner Lucy Best will host the event with music from Zepha and DJ MzRizk among others.
The Craze Collective – run by activist duo Will Stolk and Alec Zammitt – have also helped organise the event, along with the Victorian Greens, the Libertarian Party and Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell.
Separately in Melbourne, Astrid Dispensary will host a gathering at its South Yarra location, aiming to "raise awareness among the Australian community about the rich history of cannabis, its origins and its potential benefits in contributing to well-being".
Founder Lisa Nguyen said Astrid is on a "mission to educate and reshape the thinking around cannabis culture".
"This 4/20, it's more than just a celebration; we are providing an opportunity to delve into the realm of medicinal cannabis and explore its potential for enhancing well-being," she said. "On this significant day, we unite to push for crucial legislative reforms that will allow for better patient care and access to medicinal cannabis."
On the other side of the country, the WA branch of the Legalise Cannabis Party is preparing for 4/20 Fremantle at Walyalup Koort, billing the occasion as a gathering of "good vibes and great company" and a "celebration of all things green".
Legalise Cannabis WA said there will also be a "heavy focus on public education" throughout the day.
"Whether you're a seasoned smoker or just curious to learn more, there's something for everyone at 4/20 Fremantle. Come enjoy live music and a variety of vendors offering everything from hemp-made items to pet treats," organisers said on Facebook.
Sponsors for the Fremantle event include Everleaf Wellness, MediCann Health, Hemp Brothers and Vitaponix.
Once the daytime event wraps up, an after party at Flamingo Freo will continue the celebrations with live music and entertainment.
