Green Wednesday Trends: Cannabis Sales Surge as Americans Opt for Legal Alternatives Over Alcohol
The cannabis industry is witnessing a significant shift in consumer behavior, with ‘Green Wednesday,’ the day before Thanksgiving, becoming the equivalent of Black Friday in terms of sales. This phenomenon, where dispensaries across the United States offer substantial discounts on a variety of products such as pre-rolls, gummies, and vapes, has led to a remarkable increase in cannabis purchases. Reports indicate that Green Wednesday has become the second-largest day for cannabis sales, following closely behind April 20, with a reported 91% increase in average sales on the day before Thanksgiving in 2024.
While the growth of Green Wednesday highlights the industry’s expanding reach, it also brings to light the health risks associated with increased cannabis consumption. Medical professionals, including Dr. Robert Page of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, have raised concerns about the potential cardiovascular effects of marijuana, linking it to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, recent studies have warned that using cannabis to cope with stress or trauma may actually exacerbate mental health issues such as paranoia, anxiety, and depression.
Despite these health concerns, the trend of consumers switching from alcohol to cannabis continues to grow, as noted by Spencer Scott, the chief revenue officer at Dutchie, an Oregon-based e-commerce platform. Scott observed that more Americans are adopting cannabis as a preferred alternative to alcohol, which is contributing to the commercial success of Green Wednesday. As the holiday season approaches, the importance of Green Wednesday is likely to grow, as consumers prepare for family gatherings and travel.
Cannabis retailers, such as Catalyst Cannabis, a California-based dispensary with nearly 30 locations, emphasize that Green Wednesday serves as a crucial pre-holiday opportunity for consumers to stock up on their preferred products. They also advocate for responsible usage, highlighting the importance of understanding dosages, staying hydrated, and ensuring that products are securely stored away from children and pets. As consumers continue to embrace cannabis as a recreational or therapeutic alternative, the industry is poised to play an increasingly significant role in the nation’s healthcare and lifestyle trends.