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Originating from the traditional harvest festivals that have been celebrated for centuries, “Harvestfest” has taken on a new life within the cannabis community. The term originally referred to communal gatherings that marked the end of the harvest season, a time for gratitude and festivity. In today’s context, Harvestfest is synonymous with cannabis culture, representing a time when cultivators and enthusiasts alike come together to celebrate the successful harvest of cannabis crops. This event is not only a nod to the past but also a #1excludeGlossary celebration of the advancements and achievements within the cannabis industry. As the landscape of cannabis continues to evolve, Harvestfest remains a cornerstone of community and celebration, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. [Source: MedPub, Wikipedia]
The Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival is the longest running cannabis rights festival in the United States, held annually in Madison, Wisconsin since 1971.


The festival was initiated and organized by Yippie and cannabis activist Ben Masel until his death in 2011.
In 2014, the 44th annual festival was held at Library Mall. The same space was used in 2016.
What would have been the golden anniversary festival in 2020 had to be deferred to 2021. The Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival has been rebranded to be a more holistic experience placing a strong emphasis on education and advocacy, aiming to dispel misconceptions and promote evidence-based information about cannabis. The festivals newly appointed four points of focus are Equity, Sustainability, Advocacy and Agribusiness. The festival, renamed as The Great Midwest Hemp Fest, is being run by R&R Productions Company founders Chris Ronan and Nicklaus Rueda and will return to Library Mall October 1st, 2023.
