How Can Canada Expand Cannabis Tourism?

While cannabis is entirely legal in Canada for recreational and medical use, there seems to be a lack of places to consume it in a controlled environment. 

Canada’s imbalance on cannabis regulations is not only keeping consumers from using the plant inside lounges and venues but putting an odd halt on cannabis tourism in general. 

An article from The Conversation points out that for Canada to truly lead by example and be a frontrunner for destigmatization, it must extend regulations on cannabis consumption through tourism. 

Don’t get me wrong; there are already a ton of tourism initiatives across the country, from legal grow-op tours to Bud & Breakfasts (the weed-friendly version of Airbnb). However, tourism in Canada around the legalized substance is falling short, and there’s only one way to help it blossom, on-site consumption. 

Currently, most tourism initiatives around the country limit or prohibit the use of cannabis during the event. The Conversation notes how there’s a large regulatory gap that’s hindered tourism from evolving by not allowing individuals to consume their own cannabis. 

“First, legislators must set aside outdated, uninformed and mistaken ideas that associate cannabis with deviancy and illegitimate behavior,” states The Conversation, meaning that a change in thought and perception is needed to advance Canada’s industry into a more normalized, self-autonomous, and educated space. 

Another key takeaway was promoting licensing for events, spaces, and businesses to allow on-site consumption as an extension of Canada’s cannabis supply chain. 

In order to create a national cannabis industry of its own, Canada must adopt a similar approach to licensing on-site consumption as it does with cultivation facilities, manufacturers, and dispensaries. How much better would it be for Canada’s economy if cannabis consumers purchased their products and had a designated place to use them in a social setting like alcohol? 

This could be in the form of 2-in-1 dispensaries that sell products and also have a separate space on the lot for indoor or patio consumption. Another huge missed opportunity is not allowing the consumption of cannabis during outdoor concerts and festivals. 

Even if guests are not permitted to bring their own cannabis from home, this will allow vendors to set up a temporary shop on festival grounds where guests could purchase a product and be permitted to use it during festival hours. 

These are just a few of the ways Canada could position itself as a global leader in cannabis tourism. As The Conversation notes, closing the regulatory gap is crucial for making it happen.