First-Ever SEMO 420 Festival combines cannabis education and community giving in Cape

JACKSON, Mo. (KBSI) – With Easter Sunday falling on April 20 this year, local cannabis advocates are using the unique overlap to host events aimed at community engagement and education.

Buttheadz Growers Club, based in Jackson, held its first-ever SEMO 420 Festival this weekend. Organizers say the event was created not only to celebrate the cannabis holiday but also to raise money for a local community garden and help challenge the stigma surrounding marijuana use.

“I went out and got donations from several local businesses—sponsorships, knickknacks, trinkets, gifts,” said Gary Kelley II, marketing director for Buttheadz Growers Club. “We’re trying to raise money for the community garden we have here in Jackson, next to the grocery store. This is about breaking the stigma.”

Cannabis is legal in Missouri, and Kelley says education about responsible use is a key focus of the group’s outreach efforts.

“There’s this perception that cannabis users are lazy or incompetent,” he said. “We want to show that we can give back and do real good for the community.”

Vice President William [last name not provided] said the group received support from several area businesses, including Greenlight Dispensary, Burritoville, Sonic of Jackson, and Groovy Glass.

“They all donated for our adult Easter egg hunt,” he said. “This event brings the community together and raises awareness for our garden. It’s about creating a happy, positive day.”

Proceeds from the event will go toward expanding the Jackson Community Garden. The group plans to add six or seven new garden beds and eventually build a learning center to teach aquaponics and hydroponics.

Organizers and attendees alike said they hope this year’s success is just the beginning for SEMO 420 Festival and the continued growth of Buttheadz Growers Club.