BANGOR, Maine — This year, April 20 presented a trifecta of holidays: Easter, Passover, and 4/20, the unofficial holiday celebrated by many who enjoy lighting up.
Year after year, 4/20 is the best day for cannabis sales, says Justin Saucier, co-owner of American ReLeaf in Bangor.
Each year on the high holiday, sales are 25 to 30 percent higher compared to a normal day of business, Saucier says. This year, his business is offering discounts to attract customers.
“We’re doing grab bags, different levels of grab bags as well, and then just heavily discounted flower prices, concentrate prices, and edibles as well,” Saucier said. “I’m just trying to give the best deal out there.”
Deals and a great customer experience are what those popping into American ReLeaf say they like about the store.
One of the many bud tenders on duty Sunday is Aryana Fernandez. She says finding the right product for a patient coming in is a joint effort.
“It can be a little intimidating, but we’re just here to help,” Fernandez said. “So please just ask as many questions as possible.”
Everyone comes in looking for something different, Fernandez says, but finding the right solution and hearing the positive reviews from a patient are gratifying.
“That really is the best part, like finding things that work for people, because everyone’s different,” Fernandez said.
Maine voters approved medical cannabis in 1999, but the first adult-use store didn’t open until 2020. Since then, demand has grown in the budding industry with sales reaching nearly $244 million in 2024, according to the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy.
For those coming into the store on Sunday, many are in high spirits and looking forward to celebrating.
“I’m looking forward to everything, because we got an Easter basket here too, which was phenomenal, full of surprises,” Bill Carter said. He and his wife, Kiki, bought a slew of mystery grab bags from American ReLeaf on Sunday.
Shauna Hazelton is planning to spend her evening with her best buds at a friend’s house, hoping “to get as high as [she] possibly can and eat wonderful food.”
Hazelton recommends those who want to dabble for the first time start by taking it slow and “just try everything and find out what works for you.”
Planning to celebrate 4/20? Be sure to stay safe and avoid driving while under the influence.
