If you’re already counting the days till the next 4/20, we have good news for you. The famous April 20th stoner holiday has a lesser-known and little-appreciated cousin: July 10th, National Dab Day.
Why July 10th, you ask?
Well, if you take the number 710 and flip it over, it spells oil (Go ahead. Flip your screen. We won’t judge.) Cannabis oils are used in the extraction process for cannabis concentrates like dabs, shatter, amber, etc… So, for dab-enthusiasts, oil deserves a lot of celebration.
Compared to the deep-rooted 4/20, this canna-holiday is still relatively new. The day first appeared on Urban Dictionary in 2011, and the first reported celebration of it was in 2012.
But despite its recent origins, the creation story of National Dab Day (or, “Oil Day”) is a bit hazy. No one person has officially claimed ownership of the idea of using the number “710” to reference cannabis oil. One account that is widely accepted claims the concept came from a conversation an underground rapper named TaskRok had in a chat room. The group was complaining that there should be a time of day to use dabs, since 4:20 felt too dated. TaskRok reportedly proposed 7:10 because it looked like “oil” upside down, and the time stuck.
The holiday was later popularized as dabs and other cannabis extracts and concentrates became more accessible in states where cannabis was legal. TaskRok even released an album called “The Movement,” which called for 7/10 to replace 4/20 as the primary cannabis holiday.
Wherever it came from and however it happened, the bottom line is you have an excuse to get buzzed this weekend. Here are seven ways to celebrate 7/10 right.
1. Watch for 7/10 discounts
Like with any holiday, commercialization is the driving force of 7/10. Lots of cannabis companies (especially those selling extracts and concentrates) are offering their goods at a discount this week, so be sure to swing by your local dispensary or stock up online.
2. Check for 7/10 events in your area
There may not be as many events happening this Saturday as their would be on 4/20, but Oil Day conventions are, in fact, a thing (most famously, the “Secret Cup” competition.) Try searching 7/10 events in your area to see if there’s a dab-enthusiast meetup near you.
RELATED: Is 710 the new 420? A growing holiday in cannabis
3. Try a new concentrate
There are well over a dozen types of cannabis concentrates out there, each with reportedly different psychoactive affects. Why not try something new?
4. Watch a stoner-flick
There are few better ways to celebrate weed than by sitting on your couch, satisfying your munchies and watching a movie about other people doing the same thing. Check out our classic canna-film roundup if you need inspiration.
RELATED: Dabs or flower: Which is healthier?
5. Refresh your dab safety knowledge
We’re not trying to “mom” you, but it’s important to remember that dabs can be dangerous for those who lack experience. Cannabis concentrates are much more potent than other forms of the drug, and the extraction process in itself is risky. It’s best not to try anything without a friend with you, in case things go south. And, if you need a refresher, check out our tips on using dabs safely.
6. Grab your dabs at 7:10
If you plan to celebrate Dab Day the most traditional way, dabbing at 7:10 is a must. Of course, it’s probably wise to take the opportunity at 7:10 pm rather than before breakfast.
7. Make cannabutter
For those who are less inclined to use dabs, an alternative way to ring in Oil Day is to make cannabutter with cannabis concentrates. Just remember that whatever pot brownies or other treats you make with it will be extremely potent, so it’s a good idea to take it slow when you finally indulge.
Elissa Esher is Assistant Editor at GreenState. Her work has also appeared in The Boston Guardian, Brooklyn Paper, Religion Unplugged, and Iridescent Women. Send inquiries and tips to elli.esher@hearst.com.