Louisiana Cann Festival 2026: Wellness, Education, and Cannabis Advocacy in Baton Rouge
From Chronic Pain to Community: The Mission Behind Louisiana’s Premier Cannabis Event
Louisiana Cann Festival returns to Baton Rouge on May 16 to teach the community about the wellness benefits of cannabis. This annual event is the perfect mix of live performances, information, and cannabis entrepreneurship workshops. Held from 10 am–8 pm at Galvez Plaza, Louisiana Cann offers something for everyone, even if you’ve never smoked or tried a gummy.
In 2026, the experience expands with a fashion show, yoga, and a variety of specialized vendors. Whether you’re curious about infusions or an industry professional, you’ll learn plenty—plus, free medical cannabis cards are available for all ticket holders. Last year we drove from coastal North Carolina to to Baton Rouge for the festival to support the event. The road trip was much longer than expected but once we got to the event, all the stress from the traffic melted away. It’s a moderately small festival which means you have time to check out each vendor and everyone has a great view of the stage. Last year, local performers entertained all day and the headliner was the incomparable reggae Legend Sister Nancy. Once you speak to the doctor on site for your medical marijuana card, you can shop for your medicine on site with sponsor, Capital Wellness Solutions and grab local crafts, decor, canna-friendly items and delicious southern food from vendors from the area.
From Chronic Pain to Community: The Mission Behind Louisiana’s Premier Cannabis Event
“I grew up with D.A.R.E. and the ‘war on drugs’ and was thinking, ‘I’m going to lose my career and be on the front page of the paper, Teacher Caught with a Pound of Weed,’” Louisiana Cann Festival Founder Jessica Potts said.
Potts lived with decades of chronic pain until being introduced to the plant. She was taking a cocktail of heavy drugs daily to make her Multiple Sclerosis (MS) pain tolerable, but she was just maintaining. After three years in pain management, she was taking six to eight Percocet, two morphine, and a dose of fentanyl daily while teaching special education.
“I could walk in the school and sit down but I was still hurting,” Potts said. “I was so depressed and isolated from being in pain so my mom sent me to University of Southern California.” Jessica was happy to feel better but still concerned because of the stigma. This concern pushed Potts down a rabbit hole of research about the medical benefits of marijuana and the latest cannabis laws in Louisiana, and she wanted to educate others because she’s a Dellllltaaaaaa.
Advocacy, Education, and the Wellness Garden
The festival serves as a vital resource for the community beyond just entertainment. People with current charges can speak to a lawyer about marijuana expungement services, while others explore the wellness garden for sound baths, breathwork, and CBD tea sessions.
There is also a full lineup of educational sessions covering everything from the science of cannabinoids to spiritual use. For those looking for a hands-on experience, the festival features "Puff & Paint" and a rolling contest.
“Community and education are the main goals—we have a great lineup of entertainment. Attendees will be entertained, educated, and receive services. I want people to have fun and more than anything, leave with a community of like-minded people,” Potts said.
Where to Stay and things to do 👇🏿
Lousiana Cann Festival FAQs
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The event takes place Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10 am to 8 pm at Galvez Plaza. The address is 222 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70801.
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All ticket holders have access to on-site consultations with licensed physicians. If you qualify under Louisiana’s medical marijuana program, the doctor will email you a med card and upload it directly to the state registry.
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Physicians can recommend cannabis for any condition they believe it will help, including chronic pain management, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), PTSD, menstrual symptoms and anxiety.
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Yes! The festival features a legal clinic where experts discuss marijuana expungement services.
Note: A special Louisiana provision for reduced-fee expungements on first-offense possession is set to sunset in August 2026, making this May event the perfect time to seek help.
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Absolutely. Throughout the day you can enjoy a wellness garden art walk, food and more while the main stage features fashion shows and live music.
A Vibe Called Fest keeps you up-to-date with all the important information for festivals and cultural events centered around Black culture. Subscribe and check out our FesTEAval Blog posts and the Next Fests list. To purchase tickets, make a donation, or learn more, visit the Louisiana Cann Festival website.
