San Francisco

Thousands Descend on 4/20 Smokeout in Golden Gate Park

About 6,000 people descended on Golden Gate Park in San Francisco on Thursday to celebrate 4/20, the annual unsanctioned marijuana smokeout. Christie Smith reports.

An estimated 15,000 people descended on Golden Gate Park in San Francisco on Thursday to celebrate 4/20, the annual unsanctioned marijuana smokeout.

This year's party at Sharon Meadows, also known as Hippie Hill, looked a bit different, as city officials decided to make it cleaner and safer for all.

Some of the changes included: a higher-than-average number of police officers and medical personnel stationed in the area; only adults allowed in the park; a gated perimeter; preapproved food stalls; portable trash bins; and portable toilets across the venue.

Thousands Light Up at Golden Gate Park's 'Hippie Hill' for Annual 4/20 Celebration

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Rebecca Greenway

While a packed concert with hazy fog to celebrate 4/20 was the scene inside the official permitted event, some chose to spend their day just outside of the permit area.

The city allowed merchant sponsors to have a permit providing the infrastructure around the event.

Ray Chavez noticed a difference.

"It's more organized; it wasn’t as hectic as last year," he said. "I think its dope, to be honest. Like anyone could come here and do what they want."

Reaction to the changes was mixed, though, with some feeling the city was going too far. Desmond Thomas, an unpermitted vendor, was selling shirts outside one of the entry points this year.

"They’re just going overboard this year," he said.

For the most part, those who came to celebrate were feeling good.

"I just came for the good vibes, the smoke and peaceful people," one attendee said.

The city also aimed to resolve some of the past congestion issues, providing shuttle bus service. Though no street closures were initially planned, Haight Street was shut down in the afternoon.

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