High Times Cannabis Cup Comes to the Garden State
The highly anticipated High Times Cannabis Cup is making its debut in New Jersey, bringing its signature “People’s Choice” competition to the Garden State. For the first time ever, consumers in New Jersey will have the opportunity to act as official judges, sampling and scoring a wide array of cannabis products to determine the state’s best. This marks a significant expansion for the iconic competition, which has previously seen success in other markets, including a recent return to New York City. The initiative reflects the growing mainstream acceptance and commercialization of the cannabis industry.
Judging Reimagined: From Experts to Everyone
In a notable shift from its traditional format, which relied on a panel of 28 to 35 expert judges, the High Times Cannabis Cup has evolved to a community-driven model. This new approach empowers consumers to become the arbiters of quality, with “Judge Kits” available for purchase at select dispensaries across New Jersey. Each kit contains a curated selection of competition entries, allowing participants to evaluate products based on aesthetics, aroma, taste, effects, and overall quality. This democratic process aims to reflect the preferences of the actual consumer base, moving away from industry insider opinions.
Key Dates and How to Participate
The “Judge Kits” for the New Jersey Cannabis Cup are set to go on sale Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Consumers aged 21 and over can purchase these kits at participating dispensaries throughout the state. The judging period will run from March 25th through April 20th, culminating on the traditional cannabis holiday, 4/20. The winners, determined by the public’s scores, will be announced at an awards show on May 1, 2026. The event aims to celebrate the burgeoning cannabis market in New Jersey and provide a platform for brands to gain recognition.
Participating Dispensaries and Product Categories
A wide network of dispensaries across New Jersey will be offering the Judge Kits, ensuring accessibility for consumers statewide. Participating locations include Aunt Mary’s in Flemington, Authorized Dealer Dispensary in North Bergen, Jersey City, and Willingboro, among many others. The competition will cover a comprehensive range of product categories, including Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Flower, Pre-Rolls (both regular and infused), Concentrates (solvent and solventless), Vape Pens and Cartridges (solvent and solventless), and various Edibles such as Gummies, Non-Gummies, and Beverages. This extensive categorization ensures that a diverse spectrum of cannabis products will be evaluated.
High Times’s Role in the Evolving Cannabis Landscape
Josh Kesselman, Publisher of High Times, expressed enthusiasm for the New Jersey launch, stating, “We’re taking the massive success of the New York Cannabis Cup and rolling that energy straight into New Jersey.” Matt Stang, Co-Owner of High Times, added, “The Cup has always been about bringing the community together and celebrating the best products in the market. Launching this next chapter in the Garden State is another big step…” High Times, a publication with a long history in cannabis culture and advocacy, continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry through events like the Cannabis Cup, fostering community engagement, and promoting cannabis excellence.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is a High Times Cannabis Cup Judge Kit?
A Judge Kit for the High Times Cannabis Cup is a package that allows consumers to become official judges of cannabis products. It typically includes a selection of competition entries across various categories, a scorecard, and access to an online portal where judges can submit their ratings and reviews. These kits are usually sold at participating dispensaries.
How can I become a judge for the High Times Cannabis Cup in New Jersey?
To become a judge, you need to purchase an official Judge Kit when they go on sale at participating dispensaries in New Jersey. These kits are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once you have a kit, you’ll receive instructions on how to access the online judging portal to submit your scores for the products you evaluate.
What are the categories for the High Times Cannabis Cup in New Jersey?
The High Times Cannabis Cup in New Jersey will feature a wide range of categories, including Indica Flower, Sativa Flower, Hybrid Flower, Pre-Rolls (infused and non-infused), Concentrates (solvent and solventless), Vape Pens and Cartridges (solvent and solventless), and various Edibles such as Gummies, Non-Gummies, and Beverages.
