In just 10 days the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians will open the doors of their marijuana superstore to the general public, allowing access to everyone 21 and older..
(Photo credit: WLOS Staff).
On Saturday, September 7, the Great Smoky Cannabis Company will be accessible to everyone 21 and older, regardless of tribal status. The marijuana megastore is situated on tribal land in Cherokee, North Carolina, which about three hours from Charlotte and 4.5 hours from Raleigh.
This massive store, located at a refurbished bingo hall, initially opened on April 20, catering exclusively to tribal members who were medical marijuana patients. On July 4, the store expanded its services to include recreational sales, but access was still limited to tribal members.
Starting September 7, the store will be open to everyone 21 and older, with no requirement for tribal membership or a qualifying medical condition.
The Great Smoky Cannabis Company is one of the largest marijuana outlets in the country. It cost $50 million to take a bingo hall and renovate it into a state-of-the-art cannabis retail space. The store will offer a diverse range of cannabis products, including flower, edibles, and concentrates. These can be purchased by coming in the store, or by using one of their multiple drive-thru windows.
“This is a monumental step forward for our community and the state,” said Jeremy Wilson, the governmental affairs liaison for the tribe. “We’re excited to provide safe, regulated access to cannabis for those 21 and older.”
In a notable political development, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), who has historically opposed marijuana legalization, announced last month his support for legalizing the plant in a manner similar to tobacco.
