Madison Hempfest is a vibrant annual event that takes place in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, celebrating the multifaceted world of hemp and cannabis. Since its inception in the early 2000s, Madison Hempfest has become a cornerstone for cannabis culture, drawing enthusiasts, activists, and industry leaders from across the nation. The term “Hempfest” combines #1excludeGlossary a plant with a storied past and myriad uses, with “festival,” highlighting the event’s festive and educational nature. Over the years, Madison Hempfest has transformed from a modest gathering into a large-scale festival featuring live performances, educational seminars, and a marketplace for hemp-related products. This evolution mirrors the broader societal shift towards acceptance and legalization of cannabis, making Madison Hempfest a key player in the ongoing dialogue about cannabis policy and innovation. For those passionate about cannabis, Madison Hempfest offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the latest industry developments and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. [Source: Madison.com, Hempfest.org]
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.
