History of High Times Magazine
The Beginning
In 1974, Tom Forcade founded High Times during the height of the counterculture era. Originally inspired by magazines such as Playboy, High Times focused exclusively on cannabis, psychedelics, underground culture, music, and anti-establishment politics. The magazine launched at a time when possession of cannabis carried severe legal penalties. Early issues combined journalism with humor, drug reporting, cultivation advice, and celebrity interviews. What started as a rebellious underground magazine eventually became a major voice in legalization, cannabis events, and modern cannabis culture.
1980s – High Times Becomes a Cannabis Icon
During the 1980s, the magazine grew into one of the most recognizable cannabis publications in the world. Its popularity spread rapidly, and it soon became a central media voice for cannabis enthusiasts. During this time, the magazine expanded its coverage to include growing techniques, strain genetics, drug policy reform, and cannabis competitions.
In 1988
In 1988, High Times launched the Cannabis Cup in Amsterdam, creating an internationally recognized event that brought together breeders, growers, activists, and consumers to judge cannabis products and celebrate cannabis culture more openly.
2010s – Cannabis Goes Mainstream
The cannabis industry was becoming increasingly commercialized and competitive. As recreational legalization expanded in states like Colorado and California, High Times evolved into a mainstream cannabis media brand rather than an underground publication. The company expanded into cannabis expos, festivals, digital media outlets, product licensing, and partnerships with dispensaries.
Today – The Fall and Rise
In September 2024, High Times announced what was described as its “final” print publication. At 50 years old, the magazine that helped shape modern cannabis culture and legalization advocacy appeared to be coming to an end after years of financial struggles, competition, and ownership changes. However, by 2026, High Times reported plans for a relaunch.
High Times remains an important part of the cannabis industry. From prohibition-era underground communities to legalization and commercialization, the magazine documented and influenced nearly every major stage of modern cannabis culture.
Edited By Marquez Rodriguez on 5/30/2026