By Benjie Cooper
IG: @nuglifenews
YouTube: Lucid’s Vlog
The longest-running cannabis event in the United States is coming to once again take over the Sonoma County Fairgrounds December 9-10 for the 14th annual Emerald Cup. Initially started in 2003 with 23 entries and 200 attendees, the Cup is, in 2017, one of the most respected and highly-esteemed cannabis events in the world, its principal focus being on organically-grown cannabis products, sustainable outdoor farming, and education.
Like any other event with the word Cup in its name, a big part of the weekend is a competition where the top cannabis cultivators and manufacturers vie for hand-blown glass trophies and the title of ‘best’ in a range of categories including full-sun flowers, solventless concentrates, tinctures, and CBD products.
In addition to the awards given for the best-quality cannabis products, there are also prizes handed out in other related categories in the competition like best booth, lifetime achievements, and the newest one, most innovative product.
Because metal pipes and acrylic bongs are largely passé in the modern cannabis world, glass blowers and their works play an important role in helping to keep that world turning. From basic spoons to ornate and intricate bongs and dab rigs, these artisans provide a vital service to the public by manufacturing the often beautiful instruments with which they can consume their cannabis.
The Emerald Cup recognizes the value of the glass blowers and showcases their skill by awarding their creations to the winners in the competition. The artists constructing this year’s pieces are Jason Burress, Becky Beardsley, Tristan Hodges, Luke Wilson, Mobius, and JS Maplesden. Trophies will be on display for all attendees until they are handed out at the awards ceremony.
There is an extensive lineup of weekend speakers who are set to deliver a wealth of knowledge and information relating to all aspects of cannabis and its modern industry. Among those scheduled to speak are cultivator Kevin Jodrey, Weedmaps medical adviser Dr. Bonni Goldstein, holistic veterinarian Gary Richter, and Americans for Safe Access director Steph Sherer.
There is a lot of uncertainty in regards to the regulated cannabis industry launch in California after the new year so on Saturday afternoon, the chief of the state’s Bureau of Medical Marijuana Regulation, Lori Ajax will be speaking on what to expect when everything gets set into motion on January 2, 2018.
Hundreds of vendors will be set up at the Emerald Cup, serving up the full range of cannabis products. Edibles, topicals, flowers, concentrates, and all manner of related accessories will be available for purchase and enjoyment. Gourmet edible makers Garden Society and the women-owned Space Gem Candy will be there for the weekend with their sweet, delicious products on-hand.
In addition to the competition, the cannabis, and the education that is in abundance at the Emerald Cup, quality musical entertainment is also an integral part of the weekend. The Cup has brought in big-name acts like Damian Marley in previous years, and this weekend’s lineup will not disappoint as acts like The Roots, Chali 2na, Hieroglyphics, and Gramatik are set to take the stage in the ICFA Concert Hall.
Single-day tickets for the event are $70, and weekend passes are available for $130. Emerald Cup Xperience tickets can also be purchased for $400 and include early entry on both days, preferred parking, two lounges with snacks and beverages, dedicated restrooms, and preferred access to musical headliner sets.
For tickets and other information, visit the Emerald Cup’s official website at theemeraldcup.com.
