Regina celebrates 4/20 as pot legalization looms

Spirits were high in Victoria Park as pot legalization is now inching closer to becoming a reality.

On Thursday, around 100 people of all ages gathered at the park in downtown Regina to celebrate 4/20.

“When else do you see everyone get together downtown and get along,” said Brandon Gajawski.

Groups sat around in the park, whether it was on benches or blankets brought from home, and enjoyed the sun that was peeking through in the afternoon. A few games of hacky sack broke out on the grass.

As the clock turned to 4:20 people cheered and lit up in unison.

Earlier this month, Ottawa announced plans to legalize pot in 2018. This had the support of many at the event, who believed it has taken the government far too long to roll it out.

“I think it’s awesome. There’s a lot of people out there that have health issues and my brother’s one of them because he has MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and yes, it’s a good cause,” Tamara Delorme said.

“I was pretty excited, I use this for medication so I’m excited my medication isn’t going to be illegal anymore,” Natasha B. said.

However, the Trudeau government didn’t have the full support of everyone at the event.

“It’s still going to be heavily regulated and people are still going to get in trouble regardless just cause of the little loopholes and everything,” Jayden Balogh said. “I’m glad there’s something happening to progress marijuana legalization but I don’t think it’s the best route.”

Each year on April 20 marijuana enthusiasts across cities in Canada and the U.S. gather to smoke a joint in a public space.