The state Cannabis Control Board (CCB) approved a resolution on July 19 to authorize cannabis farmers markets, also known as Cannabis Growers Showcases (CGS). Two days later, the CCB began accepting applications and posted guidance and templates for municipal approval.
A CGS applicant must have at least three licensed cultivators and one conditional retail licensee present. The showcases can take place in various locations in opt-in jurisdictions. Farmers can even seek municipal approval to host CGS on their property or at other festivals and events. Entry can be free and open to the public, ticketed or private. On-site consumption as well as alcohol sales are prohibited.
“The showcases will offer several benefits, including providing our consumers access to legal regulated cannabis in places which have limited or don’t yet currently have access to storefront sales,” said OCM Director of Policy John Kagia in an interview with Marijuana Moment. “They’ll drive new revenue opportunities for our cultivators who are the anchors of our supply chain – and we’ve certainly heard from our cultivators (about) the urgency of a program like this to expand the retail sales.”
The first marijuana farmers market was held on Aug. 10 to 12 in New Paltz. It featured cultivators High Falls Canna, Oak Queen Farms and Empire Farm 1830 alongside Legacy Dispensers.
Currently, CGS’s can take place until January 1, 2024; applications will be accepted through Dec. 1.
To view the guidelines, find a CGS or apply to host a CGS, visit cannabis.ny.gov/cannabis-growers-showcase.
