Cannabis Cottage, situated in downtown Penticton, aims to pioneer the establishment of a designated consumption area within the province, potentially becoming one of the first such establishments. Their vision includes a grand opening event scheduled for April 20, featuring food trucks, local artists, and performers.
Owner Marianna Wolff expresses excitement about realizing their initial goal. Securing a location with a spacious front yard was strategic, envisioning it as a lounge area for customers. Initially, provincial regulations did not permit such spaces, but a rule change in February opened the door. This change allows existing patio spaces where tobacco consumption is permitted to also accommodate cannabis use and permits cannabis stores to advertise consumption areas.
Wolff collaborated with neighboring entities, including a church, to ensure their approval of the outdoor lounge space. All neighbors, including the church parish, consented, with the condition of no consumption during the church's Sunday School hours, which Cannabis Cottage gladly accommodated. The chosen location's deliberate selection, away from parks and schools, aims to minimize disruptions to non-participating individuals.
The concept mirrors initiatives undertaken by other cannabis retailers, such as Trugreen Cannabis in Cumberland, BC. They have been developing a community space featuring a formal cannabis consumption area. Max Oudendag, assisting Trugreen Cannabis, emphasizes their goal of destigmatizing cannabis consumption and fostering community gatherings.
Similarly, Sam Jones of 2% Jazz Coffee in Victoria plans to host monthly cannabis-themed events starting in April. These events, held outdoors, aim to provide a relaxed environment for patrons to consume cannabis, complemented by coffee and conversations. Collaborating with local cannabis companies, Jones intends these gatherings to serve as educational platforms while normalizing cannabis consumption.
These initiatives underscore a shift towards integrating cannabis into community spaces responsibly and inclusively. By engaging with stakeholders, adapting to regulatory changes, and prioritizing community feedback, these businesses aim to reshape perceptions and foster acceptance of cannabis culture
Story via StratCann
