This was Head Magazine’s second Hall of Flowers and we are determined not to miss another one! There’s something about this event that evokes the spirit of 1970s cannabis culture— of which Head Magazine was an integral part – and a time when the plant was as much about connection and consciousness as it was about experience. 

It’s a beautiful thing to be part of this industry and see the growers and the others who support the industry and are dedicated to this plant that has so many aspects of healing as well as just plain wonderful fun. 

In my estimation, it is a plant of peace and healing, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 

Brian Holler, Tawnia Sodergren, June Blankin at the Beard Bros Evening Reception

Nick Sclafani with Charlotte Parker

Kicking Things Off: Community First

The event kicked off the evening before with a reception hosted by cannabis media powerhouse Beard Bros. where they took over the Moofish Cafe at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Resort in Ventura. The atmosphere was easy, open, and genuinely welcoming—a perfect reminder that this industry is built on relationships as much as it is on innovation.

Bill Levers and Jeff Levers, along with Brian Holler, brought their signature warmth and energy, creating a space where conversations flowed as freely as the drinks. It was the kind of gathering where reconnecting with old friends felt effortless—as well as making new ones.

One of the highlights of the evening – and of the whole event – was meeting Hall of Flowers co-founder Rama Mayo, a very interesting human with a lot to say and who I hope I have the chance to see again. 

Luna Stower and Jordan Isenstadt

Morning Bagel Bash

Day One started early with the first-ever West Coast “Jews in Weed” Bagel Bash at the White House Beach Club. Bagels, lox, and great coffee and drinks were flowing along with the good vibes promoted by Jews in Weed co-founder Jordan Isenstadt and West Coast Host, Luna Stower. 

Luna Stower holding an original copy of Head Magazine from 1976 and a copy of The Other Magazine with a good friend

Head Magazine was proud to be a media sponsor of the event!

Head Magazine Editor and Publisher Charlotte Parker at Bagel Bash/ Photo by David Rock

All were welcome and the gathering felt equal parts community meetup and cultural moment—a perfect way to ease into the day ahead.

David Rock at Hall of Flowers

I was joined by Head Magazine columnist David Rock, a brilliant playwright, and heavyweight reality television producer, who not only helped cover the event but captured it beautifully through his lens.

A Cool Setting 

Set against the laid-back backdrop of the Ventura County Fairgrounds, the event unfolds across a mix of indoor halls and outdoor booths. Booths ranged from beautifully designed, immersive showcases to more understated, intimate setups—each reflecting the personality and passion behind the brand.

Upon entry, attendees received a tote bag co-sponsored by Zig-Zag Rolling Papers—quickly filled with discoveries and favorites from across the show.

But beyond the aesthetics, what truly stands out is the shared dedication. Growers, makers, and advocates come together around a plant that continues to offer so much: healing, balance, creativity, and joy. 

Hall of Flowers stands apart from many industry events. While business is certainly being done—and done well—the true focus remains on the plant itself.

Walking the floor, we visited an impressive range of California growers and the ancillary brands that support them. 

A Smart Way to Sample

One of the fun aspects of the show is that it is only available to industry participants and to that end there is a possibility of sampling a variety of different product. 

Many of the growers participated in a system where you get a voucher for their product at a reduced price and then you can redeem them at the voucher redemption area. The purpose of this is so that buyers and sellers have a method of trying different product at a reasonable price – and so that the growers are not just handing out product. 

The system worked beautifully. 

David Rock with a new friend

Spaces to Connect—and Sesh

Throughout the grounds, lounges and shaded areas invite attendees to slow down, sit back, and connect. These moments—sharing a session, exchanging stories, meeting new collaborators—are where the culture comes alive.

Head Magaziner Editor and Publisher Charlotte Parker with Cannabis Influencer Chimney Griff

Head Magazine Editor and Publisher Charlotte Parker with Kushology owner Tyler Makras

A memorable time was had catching up with cannabis influencer Chimney Griff and Tyler Makras, owner of Kushology dispensary in San Francisco.

The Good Witch Shelley Johnson showing off her tattoo

Tina Gordon of Moon Made Farms

Lori Hirsch and Tawnia Sodergren of Blue Sage THC

Liz Rodrigo of CalaLily Luxury Edibles

An Evening to Remember

The day closed with a standout afterparty hosted by the famed Good Witch Shelley Johnson (who gave me a tarot reading!) and Tina Gordon of Moon Made Cannabis – rolling the best product there is !  The party was also supported by CalaLily Luxury Edibles’ Liz Rodrigo and Blue Sage THC ‘s Tawnia Sodergren and Lori Hirsch.

Enjoying the fruits of The Volcano

It was a fitting end: warm, celebratory, and infused with the same spirit of connection that defines the event itself.

Looking Ahead

Hall of Flowers Ventura 2026 was more than a trade show—it was a reminder of why this industry matters. Rooted in community, driven by passion, and centered on a remarkable plant, it continues to evolve while staying true to its essence.

We left inspired, reconnected, and already looking forward to the next chapter in New York.

Charlotte Parker is the Editor and Publisher of Head Magazine and HeadMagazine.com