New York’s evolving adult-use cannabis landscape now includes a new opportunity for licensed businesses: the Cannabis Showcase Event Permit, outlined in Section 130-a of the state’s cannabis law. This permit allows licensed cannabis retailers to temporarily sell and showcase their products at off-site locations such as farmers’ markets, pop-ups, and public events.
To qualify, the retailer must partner with at least one licensed cannabis cultivator and one licensed processor in New York State. These partnerships must be clearly identified in the permit application. While cultivators and processors can display their products at the event, only the retail licensee holding the permit is allowed to conduct actual sales.
Each showcase event requires its own permit, and each retail licensee must apply individually—even if multiple retailers are participating in the same event. Retailers may only partner with one processor per cultivator, and no single permit may cover more than one event at a time. Events can last no more than 14 days.
The state may impose fees based on the size, duration, or other characteristics of the event. All permit holders must comply with detailed reporting and regulatory requirements. Violations can result in penalties, fines, or suspension of license privileges.
This new permit structure offers cannabis businesses a valuable opportunity to connect directly with consumers in new and engaging environments—while supporting local growers and processors and maintaining regulatory oversight.
The state may impose fees based on the size, duration, or other characteristics of the event. All permit holders must comply with detailed reporting and regulatory requirements. Violations can result in penalties, fines, or suspension of license privileges.
With the right planning and partnerships, cannabis showcase events can become a powerful tool for brand building, public outreach, and strengthening the local cannabis supply chain—while remaining fully compliant with New York State law.
