November 3, 2024
Hosting a successful cannabis event in Ontario can be a game-changer for building brand awareness, connecting with key players in the industry, and creating memorable experiences for consumers. With cannabis culture growing in Ontario, the demand for engaging, innovative events that comply with regulations is higher than ever. Whether you’re hosting a product launch, educational seminar, or a community gathering, understanding the logistics, legalities, and strategies involved is crucial.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to run a successful cannabis event in Ontario, featuring Montrose Cannabis’ JNGL DROP as a prime example of how to execute a standout event.
Before planning any cannabis event, it’s essential to define your target audience and clarify the event’s purpose. Are you looking to connect with industry influencers, build relationships with buyers, educate the public, or celebrate a product launch? Understanding your goals will help shape everything from the event’s format to its promotion strategy.
For example, JNGL DROP by Montrose Cannabis, held on October 7, 2024, was designed to bring together influencers, buyers, and general attendees in a 33% split for each category. This clear segmentation ensured the event reached its target audience, creating an atmosphere where brands and influencers could connect, network, and celebrate the cannabis culture.
Your event’s theme and venue are critical in setting the tone for the entire experience. Choose a theme that resonates with your brand identity, and select a venue that complements it. For example, a cannabis brand focused on wellness might opt for a serene outdoor setting, while a lifestyle brand could choose a trendy urban venue.
At JNGL DROP, Montrose Cannabis created a jungle-themed event that aligned perfectly with their brand’s energy and excitement. Held at DZO Viet Eatery in downtown Toronto, the venue was conveniently located near the Art Gallery of Ontario, providing a stylish yet laid-back urban setting. The space featured two distinct zones: a DJ booth area for entertainment and a networking area for building connections.
Strategic partnerships and sponsorships can elevate your event by boosting credibility, expanding your reach, and sharing costs. Look for partners whose brand aligns with your event’s mission and audience. Cannabis brands, dispensaries, accessories companies, and even local eateries can be excellent partners.
For JNGL DROP, Montrose Cannabis secured Poof.ca as one of the main sponsors. This partnership helped elevate the event's visibility and ensured that it was promoted across different platforms, engaging both Poof’s digital marketplace audience and Montrose’s network.
Entertainment and programming are central to creating an exciting event. Choose entertainment that reflects your brand’s personality and keeps attendees engaged throughout the evening. In the cannabis industry, DJs, live performances, educational panels, and product demos can all be effective in keeping the energy high and aligning with the event’s goals.
At JNGL DROP, the entertainment was a highlight. The event featured two well-known DJs, DJ Berma and DJ Shy, who spun deep house, afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The curated 8:00 PM - 12:00 AM schedule included a content videography shoot from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, allowing influencers to capture the night while adding to the immersive jungle theme.
Promotion is key to ensuring a strong turnout. Leverage digital marketing strategies, social media, and email marketing to get the word out. Additionally, partnerships and sponsorships can help extend your reach by tapping into their audiences.
For JNGL DROP, Montrose Cannabis used a mix of digital strategies, including a flyer, social media promotion, and personalized free ticket codes for key guests. Additionally, by curating a list of influencers, brands, and buyers, they ensured that the right mix of attendees was in place for an exciting, high-value networking experience.
Once the event is over, the work doesn’t stop. To maximize your return on investment (ROI), follow up with attendees, gather feedback, and use the event content to continue engaging your audience. Share event highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews to maintain momentum.
Montrose’s JNGL DROP provided an impressive ROI, distributing 50 curated ROI bags to top influencers and buyers. By capturing event videography and photography, Montrose was able to keep the event's momentum going long after it ended, sharing interviews and content from the night to engage the broader cannabis community.
Running a successful cannabis event in Ontario requires careful planning, creativity, and the right partnerships. By following these steps—knowing your audience, choosing the right venue and theme, securing partnerships, planning engaging entertainment, promoting effectively, and focusing on post-event engagement—you can create an event that leaves a lasting impression.
By leveraging Poof.ca’s digital platform, you can attract more attendees to your events, connect with the right audiences, and ensure your cannabis brand stands out in Ontario’s dynamic market.