Twin Cities Cannafest 2026: Your Ultimate Guide to St. Paul’s Premier Sampling Event
- Amanda Stead
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The Twin Cities cannabis scene is evolving at lightning speed, and if there is one event that captures the current "high energy" of the North Star State, it’s Cannafest. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or just curious about the botanical wellness world, Cannafest is the place to be this spring.
Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming event at The Lowlands, from what to expect on the floor to how to prepare for a night of premium sampling.
Event Essentials: Mark Your Calendars
Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Lowlands | 160 Wabasha St S, St Paul, MN 55107
Admission: 21+ Only (Government ID required)
What to Expect at Cannafest 2026
Cannafest isn't just a trade show; it’s a high-end hemp-derived consumer product sampling event. Unlike larger conventions that focus strictly on B2B networking, Cannafest is designed for you—the consumer.
1. Curated Sampling
Upon entry, guests are provided with a dedicated sampling glass. This is your "passport" to explore a massive variety of Minnesota’s best hemp-derived products. Expect to see:
Infused Beverages: From sparkling THC seltzers to complex botanical tonics.
Artisan Edibles: Gourmet gummies, chocolates, and unique treats from local makers.
Topicals & Wellness: High-potency relief gels and lotions (perfect for those looking for the therapeutic side of the plant).
2. Meet the Makers
This is your chance to go beyond the label. You’ll be able to chat directly with the founders and formulators behind your favorite brands (including a few familiar faces from the Simply Crafted family!). Ask about their terpene profiles, extraction methods, and the inspiration behind their newest launches.
3. A "Clean" Vibe
Cannafest is a dedicated hemp event. No alcohol is allowed on the premises, creating a focused, social atmosphere where the plant is the undisputed star of the show.
Simply Crafted’s Pro-Tips for Cannafest
To make the most of your three hours at The Lowlands, follow our "Cannafest Survival Guide":
Hydrate Early: Sampling a dozen different infused drinks can sneak up on you. Drink plenty of water before you arrive.
Eat a Solid Meal: Having some food in your system helps your body process cannabinoids more effectively and prevents that "too-high" feeling if you’re trying multiple samples.
Take it Slow: Sampling glasses are small for a reason! Sip, don’t chug. Give each sample 15–20 minutes to see how it sits with you before moving to the next heavy hitter.
Plan Your Ride: Safety first. Since you’ll be sampling active THC products, ensure you have a designated driver, or use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get home to Minneapolis or the surrounding suburbs.
Why Cannafest Matters for the MN Industry
Events like Cannafest are vital as we transition toward a fully regulated adult-use market in Minnesota. They provide a safe, legal, and professional space for the community to gather, share knowledge, and destigmatize the plant.
As we continue to build our new SC Botanicals offshoot and expand our presence in the Twin Cities, seeing the community come together at The Lowlands is a reminder of why we do what we do.
Will we see you at the Lowlands? Grab your tickets early, as this event is known to sell out fast.
Looking for more? If you can’t make it to Cannafest, check out our Product Guides & Education for deep dives into the science of sampling at home!
About the author: Amanda Stead is the owner and driving force behind Simply Crafted. A specialist in the Minnesota hemp and cannabis industry, Amanda is committed to innovation and consumer education.