We kicked off the week at Canna Fest at The Lowlands, setting the tone with strong turnout, meaningful conversations, and the opportunity to connect directly with consumers who share our passion. Island Pezi served as the event’s tasting glass sponsor, offering a memorable take-home item included with every ticket. While the event was primarily hemp-focused, it provided a valuable platform to educate attendees on the differences between hemp and cannabis-derived products, highlight our 13-acre all-in-one facility, and share the continued growth of our brands, which are now available in 59 dispensaries across Minnesota!

From there, the momentum of 420 only grew. Throughout the weekend, we partnered with incredible retailers including Minne Organix, Strains of the Earth, Grounded Gardens, Anoka Dispensary, Frostbite, and Flame & Flora. Each stop brought a unique energy, with different crowds showing up ready to learn, engage, and celebrate in their own way. These activations created space for real conversations, whether it was breaking down product knowledge, sharing our story, or simply connecting face-to-face with the community. Together, they highlighted the diversity of cannabis culture in Minnesota and reinforced how these moments of connection continue to shape and elevate the experience for everyone involved.

We closed out the weekend with something truly elevated at Earl Giles Distillery in Minneapolis: a curated showcase event featuring a six-course food and beverage tasting experience, crafted in collaboration with Earl Giles. Each course was thoughtfully paired with new Island Pezi infused beverages with nature-inspired flavors like Blueberry & Paw Paw, Dakota Lemonade, and Bramble. The experience also highlighted Grasslandz offerings, including Choke Cherry Cola, Birch Beer, and Blueberry Cream, each delivering a distinct finish that complemented the dishes and elevated the overall flavor journey, creating a refined, immersive take on infused hospitality.

It was a moment that highlighted just how far the industry has come to blend flavors, craftsmanship, and cannabis into one seamless experience. We met longtime supporters who have been rocking it with North Star Canna and Tokáhe Distribution from the beginning, first-time customers, and industry peers, all working toward the same goal: building something real in the cannabis space.

420 weekend is not only a celebration for the cannabis community, but it is also a reflection point for many. It shows how far the industry has come, especially here in Minnesota, and how many opportunities lie ahead.  Events like these remind us why we do what we do by creating quality products, building lasting relationships, and being a part of something bigger than ourselves. But being a part of something bigger also means acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.

While cannabis is now legal in Minnesota, Important conversations continue nationwide around rescheduling, equitable access, and the lasting impact of past cannabis-related convictions. Too many individuals and communities around us have been disproportionately affected. Progress isn't just about growth; it's about accountability, meaningful reform, and ensuring this industry evolves in a way that is inclusive and uplifts everyone.

To all who pulled up, showed love, asked questions, shared feedback, or just came for the free swag and vibes, thank you! You are the reason these events matter. And to our retail partners and collaborators, events like these don't happen without you! Your spaces, your teams, and your communities are what make moments like these possible. We are proud of what we have built over this 420 weekend but are even more excited about what's next because it's not just about one day, it's about the journey.

Connect with us on Instagram and let us know how your grow is doing on our social media: @North_Star_Manufacturing  

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