Event Recap: Revelry 2025
I remember when New York first launched its adult-use market in 2021. At the time, I was working at Headset, studying consumer and market trends, and had just been elected to the Board of Directors of the California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA). Watching the rollout of new markets—especially one as culturally influential as New York—was both part of my job and a personal passion.
From the beginning, it was clear there were high hopes for the market. The pace has been slower than many have hoped, but the trajectory has been undeniable. By the end of 2024, New York reported more than $1 billion in total retail sales—a five-fold increase over 2023. New dispensaries are opening, brands are multiplying, and consumers are showing up eager to support the legal market.
Revelry, a two-day b2b and b2c trade show, that took place at Pier 36 in Manhattan, captured this moment perfectly: a legal market still young and complicated, but also full of energy, creativity, and growth. Over two days, more than 200 brands and thousands of people came together to showcase the diversity and resilience of New York cannabis.
Inside Revelry: Two Days, 200+ Brands
Produced by On The Revel, a group deeply rooted in supporting equity and legacy operators, Revelry felt true to the values shaping New York’s cannabis culture.
Day One of the Buyers’ Club brought together licensed operators, retailers, and investors for the largest industry gathering the state has seen so far. Conversations centered on the realities of scaling in a legal market still ironing out its framework, but there was also a strong sense of community and collaboration.
Day Two opened to the public and Pier 36 transformed into a full-on festival. Thousands of consumers came through the doors, meeting brands face-to-face, sampling products, and sharing in the excitement of this new chapter. The cultural energy was as much a part of the experience as the cannabis itself, with performances by Black Thought, Durand Bernarr, and Fat Joe. It felt equal parts trade show and block party—a uniquely New York way of bringing the community together.
I walked the floor and stopped by nearly every brand booth, and there were a few key takeaways for me. Authenticity and a spirit of optimism are what stood out. Legacy growers proudly showcased their flower, small-batch chocolatiers debuted infused creations, and brands committed to sustainability introduced compostable and reusable packaging. Outdoor consumption areas gave a glimpse of where the legal market is headed with hospitality-driven spaces.
The MJBowl Happy Hour: A Bi-Coastal Moment
At the end of Day One, Revelry hosted a happy hour, and Budist was proud to join MJBiz, Gotham, Nabis, and other partners in sponsoring the gathering.
I had the chance to say a few remarks about the launch of the MJBowl—the first competition celebrating the best of New York and California on a national stage at MJBizCon this December.
The energy in the room made it clear that this community is eager for recognition, and the MJBowl will give brands a chance to showcase the craft and innovation that are already defining this legal market (read more about the MJBowl here).
Takeaways: Learnings from New York
Revelry put both progress and challenges on display. Many businesses are still navigating a complex regulatory environment, and the competition from unlicensed operators remains a reality. Yet the energy was overwhelmingly positive.
Equity and legacy operators weren’t on the sidelines—they were at the center. Consumers showed they’re ready for more than just branding; they want transparency, quality, and real connection to the products they're consuming. Flower and Pre-Rolls continue to anchor sales, while Concentrates and Beverages are starting to accelerate—echoing what we saw on the show floor.
It reminded me of California about a decade ago, before the implementation of Prop 64, when legacy events and competitions like the Emerald Cup and High Times Cannabis Cup were buzzing with energy and showcasing the best cannabis products the market had to offer.
Those pioneers helped celebrate and champion product quality, while giving producers much needed recognition. New York’s legal market is now at that point, and events like Revelry are part of building that foundation.
Reflections on Culture and Community
Revelry felt like New York. It was diverse, creative, bold, and unapologetic. The Buyers’ Club created space for industry builders to connect, while the festival welcomed the wider community into the fold. It was a reminder that cannabis here isn’t just about business—it’s about culture, equity, and community.
For Budist, being part of that moment and sharing the vision of the MJBowl felt like a natural step. Bridging California’s maturity with New York’s emergence is about more than a trophy. It’s about celebrating craft and giving consumers a trusted way to understand excellence across markets.
Revelry 2025 showcased the creativity, resilience, and community that make New York cannabis so distinct, while also underscoring the importance of building equitable structures that help both the legacy and emerging players thrive.
Until Next Year!
We can't for Revelry 2026. Cheers to Lulu Tsui, Jacobi Holland, and the rest of the Revelry team!