As hundreds of people came together to celebrate the legalization of cannabis in the center of Berlin, history was created. On the eve of Easter Monday, there was a palpable buzz of expectation and the distinct smell of cannabis as both campaigners and aficionados gathered to commemorate a momentous occasion in the social and legal history of Germany.
Brandenburg Gate and the German Hemp Association
The event, which was organized by the German Hemp Association’s (Deutscher Hanfverband) Berlin chapter, drew about 1,500 people who were all excited to join in the fun. Clouds of smoke billowed around the Brandenburg Gate as the clock struck midnight, shrouding the ancient site in a festive haze. Local DHV chapter member Henry Plottke called the scene “magical,” highlighting how many people were relieved to be able to publicly consume cannabis without worrying about facing consequences from the law. For Plottke and many others, the occasion signified a change in public perception of cannabis use that had been long overdue. It was more than just a fun night out. The party came to an end as the clock approached 12:40 a.m., leaving a lingering feeling of excitement and newly discovered freedom.
Hemp Museum, CSCD, and Warsaw Bridge
Another party was in progress on the busy Warsaw Bridge. Confederation of German Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCD) and Hemp Museum activists came together to light what they called “the first legal joint.” Museum director Steffen Geyer celebrated the legalization as the accomplishment of a “long-standing dream,” a feeling that many others in attendance shared. Laughter broke out as the evening wore on and a massive joint was lit and shared by the ecstatic assembly.
A new cannabis law
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remember that legalization has some limitations in spite of the excitement. While it is currently allowed for those over the age of 18 to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis and grow up to three plants for personal use, there are still certain relevant regions where cannabis consumption is prohibited. It is strictly banned to smoke within 100 meters of youth centers or when children are present. Additionally, enterprises have the ability to implement their own laws for the use of cannabis on their property. Adults will be able to grow and possess small amounts of the substance starting on April 1st, 2024. In addition, clubs for group cultivation will be accessible starting on July 1.
Despite these restrictions, Berlin’s atmosphere is still overwhelmingly upbeat, with many people excited to take advantage of the additional freedoms made possible by legalization. Easter Monday saw the continuation of the celebrations as the sun rose, with several events scheduled to mark this momentous occasion.
Although the selling of cannabis is still illegal outside of authorized channels, its legalization marks a substantial advancement in Germany’s drug-policy landscape and a move toward a more open and progressive society. It is evident that the journey towards cannabis legalization is about more than just legality, as Berliners welcome this shift with open arms. It is also about acceptance, freedom, and the ability of community to bring about significant change.