Five individuals will be paid $1,000 each to smoke cannabis and help crown Ohio’s top cannabis product at the upcoming Stargazer Cannabis Festival.
Set to take place July 25 to 27 in Waverly, the festival will host the state’s first-ever Stargazer Cannabis Cup. Unlike traditional cannabis competitions, where judging is typically reserved for industry insiders, this event is open to anyone 21 or older. Organizers say experience isn’t required—just a love for marijuana.
“We’re opening this up to everyday people that are cannabis lovers,” said festival organizer Chad Thompson. “We really want to open this up and have a broader appeal.”
Applications to become a judge are now open and will be selected randomly. Originally set to earn $420, judges will now receive $1,000, a curated product kit, and free festival admission. Judges will evaluate entries across multiple categories and select a “Best in Show” winner, who will receive $2,500 and the Stargazer Cannabis Cup trophy.
Ohio cultivators can enter the competition for $50 per product, and Thompson says he’s hoping to attract out-of-state entries as well to raise the bar.
“We’re really excited about what we’re going to find,” he said.
Stargazer is teaming with Big Cloud Presents, a veteran of cannabis competitions, including a recent organic cup in Barcelona. Also returning this year is Snoop Dogg’s personal blunt roller, Ranagade PerRana, who will lead a workshop and help judge a separate joint-rolling contest. That job pays $100 an hour.
With tickets already in high demand, Thompson is encouraging enthusiasts to secure their spot early. The festival will also feature rolling workshops and a cannabis-themed wedding giveaway officiated by rapper Afroman.
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