As anticipation builds for the FIFA World Cup in the New York metropolitan region, the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is encouraging residents and visitors to familiarize themselves with New York's cannabis laws before traveling through the state.

While tournament matches will take place across the river in New Jersey, many international and domestic fans are expected to stay in New York throughout the event. OCM says planning ahead will help visitors safely purchase regulated products while avoiding unlicensed retailers.

"Major events like the World Cup bring people from around the world, many of whom may be new to legal cannabis or may not be familiar with New York's cannabis laws," said John Kagia, Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. "Planning ahead, knowing where to buy legally and how to consume responsibly, helps ensure a safer experience and protects consumers from unregulated products. We also encourage visitors to be mindful and respectful of those around them when consuming in public spaces. Our goal is simple: make it easy for people to enjoy their time in New York while staying informed and compliant."

The agency reminds consumers that cannabis may only be purchased by adults 21 and older through licensed New York dispensaries. Products sold through the regulated market undergo mandatory laboratory testing and must meet strict packaging and labeling standards, while products sold through illicit retailers may contain contaminants or inaccurate potency information.

OCM also notes that purchases made through licensed dispensaries help support New York's regulated cannabis industry while generating tax revenue that is reinvested into communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition.

Key Guidance for Visitors

OCM encourages consumers to:

  • Purchase cannabis only from licensed dispensaries displaying the official Dispensary Verification Sticker.
  • Look for the New York State universal cannabis symbol and a valid license number on products.
  • Keep cannabis within New York. Federal law prohibits transporting cannabis across state lines, even between neighboring legal states such as New York and New Jersey.
  • Be mindful of where cannabis is consumed, respecting public spaces, hotels, and surrounding guests.
  • Avoid purchasing from unlicensed smoke shops or street vendors.
  • Follow the "start low and go slow" approach, particularly with edibles, which can take one to four hours before full effects are felt.
  • Never drive after consuming cannabis or ride with an impaired driver.
  • Store cannabis securely in its original child-resistant packaging and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

The agency also directs consumers to its Buy Legal Map and Dispensary Verification Tool, allowing visitors to identify licensed retailers throughout the state before making a purchase.

New York's Adult-Use Market Continues to Grow

According to OCM, New York's regulated adult-use market has generated more than $3.3 billion in retail sales since launch. The state now has 667 licensed dispensaries, including more than 280 located throughout New York City, making legal cannabis increasingly accessible to both residents and visitors.

With millions of travelers expected to visit the region during the World Cup, state officials say understanding local cannabis laws can help ensure a safe, responsible, and enjoyable experience while supporting New York's licensed cannabis industry.