cannabis convention las vegas: 5 Unmissable 2025 Power Events

The Ultimate Cannabis Expo Experience in Sin City

Cannabis convention Las Vegas events are the premier industry gatherings for professionals seeking networking, education, and business opportunities in the thriving cannabis marketplace. Here’s a quick overview of the major cannabis conventions in Las Vegas:

Convention	2024-2025 Dates	Location	Key Features
MJBizCon	December 3-6, 2024	Las Vegas Convention Center	30,000+ attendees, 1,400 exhibitors, 100+ speakers
Cannabis Conference	August 20-22, 2024	Paris Las Vegas Hotel	Plant-touching focus, cultivation roundtables
CannaOne: The Summer Show	June 11-13, 2025	Las Vegas Convention Center	B2B networking, live demos, technology showcase
CHAMPS Trade Show	February 2025	TBA	Counterculture, smoke shop products, accessories

Las Vegas has emerged as the undisputed capital of cannabis industry events, changing the convention landscape with its unique combination of business-friendly infrastructure, entertainment options, and cannabis-friendly regulations.

The city’s massive convention centers, luxurious hotels, and 24-hour culture create the perfect environment for cannabis professionals to connect, learn, and grow their businesses. These conventions attract everyone from cultivators and retailers to investors and ancillary service providers, making them essential destinations for anyone serious about succeeding in the cannabis industry.

My name is Stephen Gold, a cannabis marketing professional who has attended numerous cannabis convention Las Vegas events to help businesses maximize their ROI through strategic networking and brand positioning at these pivotal industry gatherings. These conventions offer unparalleled opportunities to stay ahead of industry trends and connect with decision-makers.

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Why the Cannabis Convention Las Vegas Scene Is Best?

When it comes to industry gatherings, cannabis convention Las Vegas events stand head and shoulders above similar events in other cities. But what makes Vegas the undisputed champion of cannabis conventions?

The numbers tell a compelling story. MJBizCon alone attracts more than 30,000 cannabis executives from around the world annually, making it not just the largest cannabis industry event but one of the fastest-growing trade shows in the country. This massive gathering outpaces many mainstream industry conventions, proving the legitimacy and economic power of the cannabis sector.

“Las Vegas has become our industry’s annual pilgrimage,” says Toi Hutchinson, a frequent speaker at cannabis events. “All roads lead to the end of the year in Vegas. It’s where deals get done, partnerships form, and the industry collectively charts its course for the coming year.”

The Las Vegas Convention Center, with its ability to accommodate over 10,000 cars and accessibility via the Las Vegas Monorail, provides the perfect infrastructure for events of this magnitude. The flexible venue spaces can transform to showcase everything from cultivation equipment to retail innovations, creating specialized pavilions that help attendees steer efficiently.

Vegas offers the perfect blend of business and pleasure, with its vibrant nightlife creating natural networking opportunities after convention hours. And for those concerned about cannabis odors during demonstrations, many conventions implement sophisticated scientific research on odor management solutions to maintain professional environments.

How do Nevada’s laws super-charge attendance?

Nevada’s progressive cannabis legal framework has created a perfect environment for industry conventions. Since legalizing recreational cannabis in 2017, the state has implemented a balanced approach that maintains reasonable licensing caps while encouraging innovation and growth.

This regulatory environment allows convention attendees to experience the full retail cannabis ecosystem by visiting local dispensaries, understand compliance requirements in a state with mature regulations, and witness the positive economic impact of legal cannabis on tourism and local businesses.

Nevada’s tax revenue from cannabis sales demonstrates the financial success of their model, with millions flowing into education and essential services. This real-world success story provides a powerful backdrop for convention discussions about policy and business development.

“The first time I attended a cannabis convention Las Vegas event, I was blown away by how the city’s legal framework created this incredible atmosphere of possibility,” shares Jamie Chen, a dispensary owner from Colorado. “You can actually see Nevada’s regulations working in real time when you step outside the convention center.”

What draws investors and innovators to a single desert city?

Beyond the regulatory environment, Las Vegas offers unique advantages that consistently draw the cannabis industry’s top investors and innovators.

High ROI potential is undeniable in Vegas. The concentration of decision-makers creates unparalleled opportunities for deal-making. As one venture capitalist noted at last year’s MJBizCon, “I can accomplish in three days here what would take months of travel elsewhere.”

Ancillary technology showcase opportunities abound at these events. The conventions highlight not just plant-touching businesses but the entire ecosystem of supporting technologies and services. From advanced cultivation systems to cutting-edge retail solutions, these innovations often debut at Vegas conventions.

Global accessibility is another major factor. With direct international flights from major cities worldwide, Las Vegas makes it easy for global cannabis leaders to converge in one location. This international presence brings diverse perspectives and creates cross-border partnership opportunities.

Entertainment synergy can’t be overlooked. The city’s world-class entertainment options create natural networking environments beyond the convention floor. Many crucial business relationships begin over dinner at a renowned restaurant or during an evening show.

As Denise Mink, a cannabis business owner, shared after attending MJBizCon: “The conference inspired changes that transformed my business from merely surviving to thriving. The connections and knowledge gained in Vegas literally changed our trajectory.”

The cannabis convention Las Vegas scene has become the industry’s North Star, guiding businesses toward growth, innovation, and success in this rapidly evolving market. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis executive or a newcomer looking to break into the industry, these Vegas conventions offer best value and opportunity.

MJBizCon: The Flagship Gathering

When cannabis professionals think of cannabis convention Las Vegas, MJBizCon immediately comes to mind. Since 2012, this industry cornerstone has transformed from a modest gathering into what many now consider an annual pilgrimage—essential for anyone serious about cannabis business.

The upcoming 2024 MJBizCon, happening December 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, promises to outshine previous years. Picture this: 1,400+ exhibitors showcasing everything from cultivation equipment to retail software, 100+ industry experts sharing insights from the trenches, and 50+ sessions covering every imaginable aspect of cannabis entrepreneurship.

What makes MJBizCon particularly navigable is its thoughtful organization into four specialized pavilions: Cultivation Products & Services, Processing, Packaging & Lab Services, Retail & Dispensary, and Business Services. This smart segmentation turns what could be an overwhelming experience into something manageable and purposeful.

“The pavilion organization saved me hours of wandering,” shared a dispensary owner from Colorado. “Instead of getting lost in a sea of booths, I could focus directly on the retail innovations that would actually move the needle for my business.”

For those wanting to dive deeper before the main event kicks off, the pre-show forums on December 2 offer concentrated knowledge in specialized areas including Finance, Marketing, Science, Psychedelics, Women’s Leadership, and Association Management. These sessions provide the perfect runway before the full convention takes flight.

First-timer hacks for navigating the multi-pavilion maze

Your first MJBizCon can feel like stepping into cannabis Disneyland—exciting but potentially overwhelming. Here’s how seasoned attendees make the most of this massive gathering:

Divide and conquer by tackling just one exhibition floor or pavilion per day. This approach reduces mental fatigue and allows for more meaningful conversations with exhibitors who might become your next crucial business partner.

The official floor-plan app is your best friend—download it before you arrive. This interactive guide helps you pinpoint specific exhibitors and plan efficient routes through the halls, saving your energy for networking rather than wandering.

Smart attendees schedule strategic meet-ups in advance. “I learned to pre-arrange specific meeting times and booth locations with my must-see contacts,” explains a cultivation director from Michigan. “This guaranteed I wouldn’t miss connecting with priority vendors in the shuffle.”

When researching exhibitors beforehand, use targeted search terms like “cannabis convention Las Vegas MJBizCon retail technology” to find the most relevant booths for your specific needs.

And here’s a golden tip from MJBizCon veterans: hit the exhibition floor during morning educational sessions when crowds thin out. This gives you quality time with exhibitors without having to shout over the usual afternoon buzz.

One marketing director from a New York dispensary put it perfectly: “My first year, I was completely overwhelmed. The second year, I came with a plan, scheduled key meetings in advance, and focused on one pavilion per day. The difference was night and day—I left with actionable partnerships instead of just a bag full of brochures.”

Which sessions can’t you miss at MJBizCon?

While every session offers value, certain MJBizCon events consistently deliver exceptional insights that attendees rave about year after year:

The Finance Forum (Pre-Show) packs a full day with investment trends, valuation metrics, and funding strategies. If you’re seeking capital or looking to invest, this data-driven session offers gold-standard perspectives from the industry’s financial leaders.

At the Women’s Leadership Summit (Pre-Show), female cannabis pioneers connect for mentorship and strategy sharing. “The Women’s Networking event revealed the significant and inspiring presence of women in cannabis,” noted an account manager who attended in 2022. “I left with both business cards and a renewed sense of possibility.”

The Science Symposium (Pre-Show) delivers cutting-edge research for cultivation experts, extraction specialists, and product developers. This technically-focused forum provides actionable insights that can immediately improve product quality and operational efficiency.

Don’t skip the Main Stage Keynotes where industry luminaries address market trends, regulatory shifts, and future forecasts. These sessions set the convention’s tone and provide the big-picture perspective that helps position your business strategically.

As Dan Serard, who hosted a panel on Marketing Efforts to Drive ROI at MJBizCon 2022, wisely advises: “Don’t just attend sessions in your comfort zone. Some of the most valuable insights come from adjacent sectors that influence your business indirectly.”

Cannabis Conference: Plant-Touching Mastery

While MJBizCon covers the entire cannabis ecosystem, the Cannabis Conference zeroes in on the specific needs of plant-touching businesses. Scheduled for August 20-22, 2024, at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel, this focused event is the industry’s longest-running conference exclusively dedicated to cultivation, retail, and manufacturing operations.

The Cannabis Conference feels like coming home for anyone with soil under their fingernails or who’s ever trimmed a plant. It stands out for its practical, roll-up-your-sleeves approach to cannabis operations. I’ve watched attendees furiously taking notes during sessions on cultivation technology, compliance strategies, and operational excellence.

What makes this event particularly valuable is its deep dive into critical but often overlooked issues. Ever struggled with odor control at your facility? They’ve got specialized content on that. Pulling your hair out over permitting challenges? Experts are on hand with solutions. The event organizers have clearly been in the trenches themselves.

“Attendees will learn from the mistakes others have made to save significant costs,” one event organizer told me with a knowing smile. “These lessons can save businesses thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars in avoidable expenses.”

The conference offers a variety of educational formats that feel more like collaborative problem-solving than traditional lectures. You’ll find cultivation roundtables where the real magic happens through peer-to-peer learning, expert-led workshops tackling specific operational headaches, intensive pre-show sessions for industry newcomers, and networking events designed for actual relationship-building rather than just card-swapping.

For more insights on effectively marketing your cannabis business while maintaining compliance, check out more info about marketing services.

Why cultivators swear by this event for SOP upgrades

I’ve spoken with dozens of cultivation professionals who rank the Cannabis Conference as their go-to event for improving standard operating procedures. One master grower from a multi-state operation shared a story that stuck with me: “I implemented three specific changes to our environmental controls based on a single session at last year’s conference. Those changes resulted in a 12% yield increase and significantly reduced our powdery mildew issues.”

What makes this event so valuable for SOP improvements? For starters, the expert-facilitated roundtables create intimate settings where cultivators can troubleshoot specific challenges with peers who’ve faced similar issues. These aren’t theoretical discussions—they’re problem-solving sessions that lead to immediate operational improvements.

The compliance panel deep-dives are worth their weight in gold, breaking down complex regulatory requirements into actionable steps. I’ve watched the relief on operators’ faces as they finally understand how to steer confusing compliance landscapes and avoid costly violations.

For the data-driven grower, the yield analytics workshops provide concrete strategies to optimize operations for efficiency and quality. Meanwhile, the sustainable practices showcases highlight innovative approaches that reduce resource consumption while maintaining or improving product quality—a win-win in today’s environmentally conscious market.

Can a newcomer still score big connections here?

Don’t let the technical nature of the Cannabis Conference intimidate you if you’re new to the industry. Despite its reputation as a gathering of seasoned veterans, I’ve witnessed countless success stories from first-timers who arrived nervous and left with game-changing connections.

The conference organizers clearly understand the intimidation factor and have created several on-ramps for newcomers. Their mentor matchmaking programs pair industry newcomers with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and introductions. These aren’t just quick handshakes—they’re the beginning of meaningful professional relationships.

The exhibit hall happy hours create a relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows naturally. There’s something about that post-session drink that breaks down barriers between industry veterans and newcomers alike. I’ve literally watched million-dollar partnerships form over a beer at these events.

For those who like to plan ahead, the dedicated “cannabis convention Las Vegas” networking tools help attendees identify and connect with others who share specific interests or challenges before the event even begins. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed upon arrival, the first-timer orientation sessions provide a roadmap to steer the event effectively while connecting with fellow newcomers.

For dispensary owners looking to stand out in a crowded market, these connections can be invaluable. At The Gold Standard, we’ve helped numerous clients leverage these relationships to develop marketing approaches that drive foot traffic while navigating the complex regulatory landscape of cannabis advertising.

CannaOne: The Summer Show for B2B Trailblazers

For those who can’t wait until December for MJBizCon, CannaOne: The Summer Show offers a perfect mid-year opportunity to find innovations and forge valuable connections. Scheduled for June 11-13, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center South Hall, this business-focused event zeroes in on the legalized cannabis, CBD, and hemp industries when they need it most—before planning for the busy holiday retail season.

The summer timing of this cannabis convention Las Vegas event is truly genius. It gives businesses enough runway to implement new strategies and technologies well before the year-end rush. Plus, the broader focus on hemp technologies alongside traditional cannabis products offers a more complete picture of what’s possible with this remarkable plant.

“I was skeptical about attending another convention,” admits Teresa, a dispensary manager from Colorado, “but CannaOne’s summer timing was perfect for us. We finded inventory solutions we implemented immediately, which completely transformed our holiday season preparation.”

The Las Vegas Convention Center’s expansive South Hall provides the ideal backdrop for this growing event. Getting there couldn’t be easier with the Las Vegas Monorail dropping you practically at the entrance, and parking for over 10,000 cars if you prefer to drive. One feature I particularly love is the 3D interactive floor plan that exhibitors can embed on their websites—it helps you plan your attack strategy before you even arrive!

Need a pro tip? The South Hall can get warm with all those bodies, so dress in comfortable layers and stake out the best parking spots early. The Gold Standard team always aims for the Paradise Road lot to avoid the crush on Convention Center Drive.

What innovations headline the CannaOne main stage?

The main stage at CannaOne has earned its reputation as the crystal ball of cannabis technology. This is where you’ll see tomorrow’s game-changers demonstrated today.

Packaging robots steal the show every year, with systems that can label, fill, and seal products at speeds human hands simply can’t match. These aren’t just fancy toys—they’re compliance machines that ensure every package meets exact regulatory requirements while slashing labor costs. One Colorado cultivator told me they reduced packaging staff by 40% while improving accuracy after implementing technology they finded at last year’s show.

Solvent-less extraction innovations draw huge crowds as well. These demonstrations showcase how to produce premium concentrates without potentially harmful chemicals—a major selling point for health-conscious consumers. The live demos often feature side-by-side comparisons of product quality and yield statistics that make the business case crystal clear.

Retail POS systems have evolved way beyond simple cash registers, and CannaOne is where you’ll see the latest advances. Today’s cannabis-specific systems integrate compliance tracking, inventory management, customer relationships, and even predictive purchasing patterns. The best part? Many vendors offer special cannabis convention Las Vegas pricing for on-the-spot purchases.

“We completely overhauled our point-of-sale system based on what we saw at CannaOne,” shares Michael, a dispensary owner from Michigan. “The new system paid for itself in just four months through inventory waste reduction alone.”

The main stage also regularly features supply chain transparency tools using blockchain technology that allows complete seed-to-sale verification. These systems not only satisfy regulatory requirements but build consumer confidence in product authenticity and safety.

Hemp innovations round out the main stage presentations, showcasing creative applications beyond traditional CBD products. From sustainable building materials to biodegradable plastics, these presentations highlight hemp’s remarkable versatility and commercial potential.

What makes CannaOne special isn’t just seeing these technologies—it’s getting actionable advice on implementation, ROI calculations, and integration strategies from people who’ve already done it successfully. Between main stage presentations, experts often hang around for impromptu Q&A sessions that can be even more valuable than the formal presentations.

If you’re planning to attend, I strongly recommend downloading the event app in advance and marking your must-see presentations. The most popular ones fill up fast, and you’ll want to arrive early to grab a seat where you can actually see the demonstrations, not just hear about them!

CHAMPS Trade Show & Ancillary Expo

While the previously mentioned conventions focus primarily on the cannabis plant and its direct applications, the CHAMPS Trade Show takes a different approach by highlighting the vibrant counterculture and accessory market that surrounds cannabis. Typically held twice yearly in Las Vegas (February and July), CHAMPS connects smoke shop owners, glass artists, and lifestyle brands.

CHAMPS isn’t just another cannabis convention Las Vegas event—it’s a celebration of cannabis culture through art, fashion, and functional accessories. Walking through the exhibition hall feels like stepping into a gallery where commerce meets creativity. Exquisite handcrafted glass pieces catch the light at every turn, with artists often on-site demonstrating their remarkable techniques.

“I found my dispensary’s best-selling accessory line at CHAMPS last year,” shares Maya, a New York dispensary owner. “The artist connection we made has blossomed into a custom collaboration that our customers absolutely love.”

The February 2025 CHAMPS event (exact dates TBA) will continue the show’s tradition of connecting retailers with the products that complement the cannabis experience. Beyond the stunning glass art, you’ll find counter-culture apparel that resonates with your customers, innovative consumption devices that solve common pain points, and direct manufacturer relationships that offer wholesale pricing you simply can’t find elsewhere.

For dispensaries looking to expand their merchandise offerings beyond cannabis products, CHAMPS provides a treasure trove of options. The trending accessory lines for 2024-2025 include:

• Eco-friendly hemp-based accessories with minimal environmental impact
• Technology-improved consumption devices with precision temperature control
• Artist-collaboration limited edition pieces that drive collector interest
• Odor-containment solutions designed for the on-the-go lifestyle
• Wellness-focused accessories that complement therapeutic cannabis use

How does CHAMPS differ from strictly cannabis-licensed expos?

CHAMPS occupies a unique position in the cannabis convention Las Vegas ecosystem that sets it apart from other industry events. While MJBizCon and Cannabis Conference focus on plant-touching operations, CHAMPS accepts the broader cultural ecosystem.

The smoke-shop network focus creates a different atmosphere entirely. You’ll meet retailers who serve both cannabis consumers and tobacco users, offering insights into complementary markets that can diversify your revenue streams. These connections often lead to unexpected partnership opportunities that wouldn’t materialize at strictly cannabis-focused events.

The event’s lifestyle branding emphasis feels refreshingly authentic. Rather than corporate presentations, you’ll experience cannabis culture through fashion, art, and lifestyle products that create emotional connections with consumers. One dispensary manager told me, “The cultural insights we gained at CHAMPS helped us completely reimagine our store’s aesthetic and customer experience.”

Perhaps most uniquely, CHAMPS offers onsite cash-and-carry options. Unlike most B2B cannabis events where products are ordered for future delivery, many CHAMPS exhibitors allow immediate purchase and take-home of samples or initial inventory. This “try before you buy” approach lets you test market reception before committing to larger orders.

The artist-direct relationships fostered at CHAMPS can become a significant competitive advantage for your dispensary. These connections enable custom collaborations and exclusive pieces that competitors simply can’t replicate. Customers increasingly value authenticity and craftsmanship, making these relationships valuable beyond the products themselves.

Finally, the broader accessibility of CHAMPS creates a more diverse gathering of businesses and entrepreneurs. Without the strict focus on licensed cannabis operations, you’ll meet innovative thinkers from adjacent industries who bring fresh perspectives to common challenges.

For dispensaries working with The Gold Standard on comprehensive marketing strategies, CHAMPS offers valuable insights into consumer trends and complementary product categories that can improve the overall customer experience and increase average transaction values. The cultural authenticity and artistic elements showcased at CHAMPS often inspire marketing approaches that resonate more deeply with target audiences.

Pro Tips for First-Time Vegas Convention-Goers

Stepping into your first cannabis convention Las Vegas event feels like entering a whirlwind of opportunities. Between the dazzling energy of Sin City and the busy convention halls packed with industry leaders, it’s easy to feel both exhilarated and overwhelmed. I’ve guided dozens of clients through their first convention experiences, and I’m here to share the insider knowledge that will help you thrive rather than just survive.

What should you pack besides business cards?

You’ve ordered your stack of freshly printed business cards, but trust me—you’ll need much more in your convention survival kit. The desert climate of Las Vegas combined with long days in air-conditioned halls creates unique challenges.

Hydration is non-negotiable in the desert, even when you’re indoors. Bring a refillable water bottle you can easily carry—convention center water fountains exist but can be surprisingly hard to find when you’re parched. Many seasoned attendees swear by electrolyte tablets that can transform ordinary water into a recovery drink after a long day of networking.

Your footwear choices can make or break your convention experience. I’ll never forget meeting a dispensary owner who wore brand new dress shoes on his first convention day—by lunch, he was shopping for replacements and bandages. Opt for professional-looking shoes with serious comfort and support, as you’ll likely log 5-10 miles daily on unforgiving concrete floors.

When it comes to branded swag, quality trumps quantity every time. Skip the generic pens that will be tossed in a drawer and forgotten. Instead, bring items that reflect your brand’s unique personality—one client created custom hemp-based notebooks with QR codes linking to their dispensary tour video, which generated genuine excitement and memorable conversations.

Portable chargers aren’t just helpful—they’re essential lifelines. Between scanning badges, taking photos of innovative products, exchanging contact information, and checking the convention app, your phone battery will drain faster than you can say “networking opportunity.” Pack multiple charging options, including a fully-charged power bank for emergencies.

The temperature swings inside convention centers can be surprisingly dramatic. One hall might feel like a sauna while the next feels like a walk-in freezer. Wearing layers allows you to adapt quickly without compromising your professional appearance.

How to turn one handshake into a six-figure deal

The magic of a cannabis convention Las Vegas event isn’t just who you meet—it’s what you do with those connections afterward. I’ve seen countless promising handshakes lead nowhere, while others blossom into transformative partnerships. The difference lies entirely in the follow-up strategy.

Follow-up timing is everything. Send a personalized email within 24 hours while your conversation is still fresh. Reference something specific you discussed—not just “Great meeting you!” but “I’m still thinking about your insights on customer retention strategies for urban dispensaries.” This shows you were genuinely engaged and sets you apart from the generic follow-ups flooding their inbox.

Organize your new contacts immediately. At the end of each convention day, take 15 minutes to add detailed notes to your CRM about each person you met. Tag contacts based on potential opportunities, follow-up timing, and conversation highlights. This simple habit prevents valuable connections from falling through the cracks when you’re back in your normal routine.

Social media engagement creates ongoing touchpoints after the convention ends. Connect on LinkedIn with a personalized message that references your in-person meeting. Then, strategically engage with their content over the following weeks. One New York dispensary owner I worked with set a reminder to interact with key contacts’ posts at least twice monthly—a small habit that kept his brand top-of-mind and eventually led to a major supply partnership.

Become a resource, not a salesperson. The most successful follow-ups provide value before asking for anything in return. Share an article addressing a challenge they mentioned, offer to make a helpful introduction, or send information about an upcoming industry event. This approach positions you as a valuable connection rather than just another vendor seeking their business.

At The Gold Standard, we’ve developed a comprehensive convention strategy that helps dispensaries maximize their ROI from these events. One client used our targeted networking approach at MJBizCon and secured three game-changing vendor partnerships from a single day of meetings.

“The connections we made completely transformed our product selection,” the dispensary owner told me afterward. “The Gold Standard’s preparation strategy ensured we met exactly the right partners for our business goals. Those handshakes turned into relationships that have generated over $200,000 in additional revenue this year alone.”

The real secret to convention success isn’t just showing up—it’s showing up prepared, staying present during conversations, and following through with intention. With these strategies, even first-time attendees can steer the cannabis convention Las Vegas scene like seasoned pros and turn brief encounters into valuable long-term business relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vegas Cannabis Conventions

Are these events open to consumers or industry pros only?

When it comes to cannabis convention Las Vegas events, there’s often confusion about who can attend. The truth is, most of these gatherings are strictly business-to-business affairs.

MJBizCon, Cannabis Conference, and CannaOne all maintain a professional-only environment, with registration systems designed to verify your industry credentials. They’ll typically ask for business documentation during the registration process to ensure the event remains focused on industry networking and deals rather than consumer education.

CHAMPS Trade Show takes a slightly different approach. While still primarily B2B, they cast a wider net by welcoming smoke shop owners, glass artists, and lifestyle retailers. Their verification process tends to be a bit more flexible for retail shop owners and staff.

One thing all these events have in common? None allow cannabis consumption on the premises. These aren’t festivals or consumption events – they’re professional business conferences where serious networking and commerce happen. As one first-time attendee told me, “I was surprised by how buttoned-up it felt – more like a technology conference than what most people imagine when they think ‘cannabis event.'”

What documents do I need to register or exhibit?

Getting properly registered for a cannabis convention Las Vegas event requires some preparation. The specific requirements vary by event, but here’s what you’ll typically need:

If you’re attending, be prepared to show your business identification (like a license or tax ID), and use your professional email during registration – personal Gmail accounts often trigger additional verification steps. You’ll also need to verify your industry role, sometimes with a business card or website listing showing your position. Government-issued photo ID is always required for badge pickup, and remember that all attendees must be 21 or older.

Exhibitors face more extensive requirements. Beyond basic business documentation, you’ll need a certificate of insurance meeting specific coverage thresholds, tax identification numbers, signed exhibitor agreements, and sometimes product compliance documentation for certain categories of display items.

International attendees should plan even further ahead. A valid passport is essential, and depending on your country of origin, you might need a visa. These verification processes can take time, so start early – I’ve seen too many disappointed faces at registration when documentation wasn’t in order.

How early should I book hotels on the Strip?

The massive influx of cannabis professionals during convention season creates a perfect storm for hotel pricing in Las Vegas. Being strategic about your accommodations can save you hundreds of dollars and significantly improve your experience.

For MJBizCon in December, the city’s largest cannabis gathering, you should book 6-8 months in advance for the best selection and pricing. Wait until September, and you’ll likely face rate increases of 30-50% for those same rooms. The Cannabis Conference in August requires a bit less lead time – 4-5 months is usually sufficient, as August traditionally sees fewer tourists in Vegas.

CannaOne’s June timing means competing with early summer vacationers, so aim to book 3-4 months ahead. For CHAMPS in February and July, a 3-4 month booking window works well, though considering properties slightly off-Strip can yield better rates while still keeping you close to the action.

Most conventions negotiate special room blocks with nearby hotels, offering discounted rates through codes provided during registration. These blocks typically release unsold rooms 30-60 days before the event, after which prices jump significantly. As one dispensary owner shared after attending last year: “I waited too long to book and ended up paying nearly double what my colleagues did for the same hotel. Lesson learned!”

Pro tip: Consider the Las Vegas Monorail when choosing your hotel. It provides easy access to the Convention Center from several Strip properties, allowing you to stay at more affordable hotels like MGM Grand, Bally’s/Paris, or The LINQ while maintaining convenient access to the events.

At The Gold Standard, we always advise our clients to book accommodations immediately after registering and to prioritize hotels that host after-hours networking events. Those informal evening connections often lead to the most valuable partnerships – sometimes more so than the scheduled daytime meetings. After all, Vegas is the city that never sleeps, and some of the best business deals happen long after the convention floor closes.