Great Midwest
Hemp Fest
Madison, Wisconsin | 10.01.23
THE 54th YEAR of ADVOCACY
The Great Midwest Hemp Fest is the longest-running cannabis rights festival in the United States, held annually in Madison, Wisconsin since 1971. Formerly known as The Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival, it began as a smoke-in at the Wisconsin State Capitol to protest the cannabis-related arrests of legalization activists in the 1970’s. The Great Midwest Hemp Fest places a strong emphasis on education and advocacy, aiming to dispel misconceptions and promote evidence-based information about cannabis. This festival gives speakers, professionals and advocates a chance to network, learn, shop and join the community in opposition to cannabis prohibition in the State of Wisconsin.
LIVE PERFORMANCES
Here to entertain: see local and national bands, musicians, and artists between two different stages throughout the day.
VENDORS
Here to provide: browse the local vendors and businesses who create, thrive, and share in the cannabis market.
SPEAKERS
Here to educate: meet the speakers who share their success stories, enlighten the public, and back the legalization of cannabis.
ADVOCACY
Here to make a change: be a part of the 5000+ attendees who actively use their presence to encourage revolution.
OUR HISTORY
The festival was initiated and organized by Yippie and cannabis activist, Ben Masel, in 1971 and he continued until his passing in 2011. The festival remains strong with new generations carrying on this historical tradition and cause. With over 70% of Wisconsin voters in favor of marijuana legalization, advocates from all over join in Madison, Wisconsin each year to continue pushing for cannabis reform. With 2024 being an election year, your advocacy matters now more than ever.