Today marks the 24^th anniversary of Vancouver’s iconic weed appreciation protest and farmer’s market.

Over 600 vendors and thousands of canna-fans are gathered at Sunset Beach Park, with thousands more expected before the 4:20 pm smoke up, hoping this year will be the last under the shadow of prohibition.

To avoid last year’s grass catastrophe, a protective covering has been placed over the lawn, and so far Mother Nature has kept the soggy weather at bay. Tow trucks and traffic stops enclose adjacent neighborhoods, though the police presence within the event is noticeably sparse.

Going ahead without the approval of the Vancouver Park Board, organizers are covering the costs of things like sanitation and traffic control, as well as donating $8,400 to St. Paul’s Hospital and the Vancouver Firefighter’s “Snacks for Kids” foundation to offset the impact of the event on the surrounding community.

Event organizers say after all costs they expect to break even. Amidst the sea of colourful tents and characters, you may even catch a glimpse of a guy walking around with a leaf-blower bong billowing pot smoke into the crowd.