With April 20 quickly approaching, the slight hint of marijuana is already filling the Denver air. 420, as the day is commonly referred to, is not just marijuana enthusiasts favorite day of the year, but it’s also a monumental day in Colorado’s history. This year marks the first time that recreational marijuana use is legal on April 20, through the passing of Amendment 64. Whether you have welcomed this legalization with open arms or prefer to keep the reefer at a distance, 420 in Denver will be filled with great opportunities to see live music, comedians and informational speakers.

In the past, Civic Park had been known to host a rally meant to generate support for the legalization of marijuana. The rally is typically the most well-attended event for the day. This year, instead of rallying for the cause, the event has transitioned into a festival. The event is now being advertised as a two-day festival including a lineup of mainstream musicians and local food vendors.

Important changes have been made for this year’s festivity, as officials take into consideration the new legislation and the unfortunate shots that were fired at last year’s rally. Although the shots weren’t life-threatening, the crime remains unsolved. As marijuana use was illegal in the past, officials had focused their energy on cracking down on smokers, whereas this year the focus is more geared towards containing the large number of anticipated attendees and keep violence at a minimum.

In addition to the Civic Park event, there are a huge variety of other concerts around Denver. Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa’s show at Red Rocks is already sold out, but there are plenty of other artists who will be in town. There are multiple weekend festivals with manageable prices, including Daze on the Green at Sculpture Park and Dabroots at Darkstar Lounge.

If these marijuana-themed activities encompassing Denver make you want to head for the hills, the mountains are a great place to escape to. April 20 is also closing day for many ski resorts, including Vail, Beaver Creek and Keystone. Although smoking in public is still illegal in Colorado, the gondolas may smell slightly skunky, but a ski day is a great excuse to get out of Denver on this particular day.

DU students fit both ends of the spectrum relating to the hazy holiday.

“I’m going to a birthday party for two friends, but my day will not revolve around 420. I think this year it will be interesting under the circumstances of Denver’s new laws to see if more people feel like they should participate or if it’s similar to how it’s been in the past,” said Lexi McVean, an Amarillo, Texas native and criminology and psychology major.

With countless opportunities and activities at student’s disposal on April 20, in both Denver and the surrounding areas, the day has the potential to be a fun end to the weekend for smokers and nonsmokers alike.