April Fools’ Day and cannabis share one thing in common—both can leave people wondering, “Is this real?” Over the years, we’ve witnessed some of the most hilarious April Fools’ cannabis pranks, ranging from fake THC products to government announcements that had everyone doing a double-take. Whether it was a company pulling off an elaborate trick or a headline that seemed too good (or bad) to be true, these pranks left cannabis enthusiasts laughing, and sometimes, a little disappointed. But that’s the beauty of April Fools’—it keeps us on our toes. From ridiculous product launches to wild cannabis-related announcements, these moments remind us of the playful side of the cannabis culture. Let’s roll through the top 10 cannabis pranks that had people second-guessing reality and questioning what was real – for just a moment.
Manitoba’s Fake Legalization Report (April 1, 2014)
On April 1, 2014, a Canadian newspaper pulled off one of the earliest April Fools’ cannabis pranks. It published a report claiming that Manitoba was set to legalize recreational cannabis by Easter weekend. The article suggested that provincial leaders were inspired by Colorado’s massive tax revenue from cannabis sales and wanted to follow suit.
The prank spread quickly, sparking excitement among cannabis advocates who had been pushing for legalization. Some people even began making plans to celebrate Manitoba’s new, supposedly progressive cannabis policy. However, others were skeptical, questioning whether the conservative-leaning province would really take such a bold step before the rest of Canada.
It didn’t take long for the truth to come out—it was all a joke. At the time, cannabis remained strictly illegal in Canada. A full nationwide legalization wouldn’t happen until 2018.
Although Manitoba’s 2014 legalization report was fake, it foreshadowed the real changes that were coming just a few years later. The prank may have been premature, but it highlighted the growing public interest in cannabis reform. It was a movement that would eventually lead to legalization across the country.
Muuna’s THC-Infused Cottage Cheese (April 1, 2019)
On April 1, 2019, cottage cheese brand Muuna surprised the cannabis community with one of the most unexpected April Fools’ cannabis pranks. They advertised a THC-infused cottage cheese! Unlike traditional edibles, this unique product supposedly promised both a high-protein snack and a high-inducing experience. It seemed like a perfect fit for fitness enthusiasts who also enjoy cannabis.
Unfortunately for those curious to try it, Muuna’s cannabis-infused cottage cheese was nothing more than a joke. But the prank highlighted the growing trend of cannabis-infused foods beyond the usual gummies and chocolates. As cannabis legalization expands and food innovation continues, who knows? One day, THC-infused dairy products might actually hit the shelves. Until then, cannabis enthusiasts will have to settle for more conventional edibles—and maybe mix their own cottage cheese creations.
Sweet’N High – The Sweet Lie (April 1, 2019)
On April 1, 2019, Sweet’N Low, the well-known artificial sweetener brand, pulled off one of the most convincing April Fools’ cannabis pranks in recent memory. The company announced the launch of Sweet’N High. It was suposedly a THC-infused sweetener that claimed to enhance both your coffee and your mood.
The concept was an instant hit—cannabis enthusiasts and wellness advocates alike were eager to try a low-calorie way to enjoy THC. Social media buzzed with excitement, and some users even tried to place pre-orders for the product. With the rise of cannabis-infused edibles and beverages, the idea didn’t seem too far-fetched.
However, it turned out to be just a clever prank. Sweet’N Low eventually revealed the truth, dashing the hopes of many who had already envisioned their morning coffee ritual getting an extra lift.
Jack Astor’s ‘Marijuana Menu’ (April 1, 2019)
On April 1, 2019, Canadian restaurant chain Jack Astor’s had foodies and cannabis enthusiasts rushing to their locations. They’d announced a brand-new “Marijuana Menu.” The highlight of this special offering? Cannabis Sauce Wings, was a dish supposedly infused with THC to elevate both flavor and mood.
With Canada having legalized cannabis in 2018, the prank felt almost believable. Social media lit up with excitement, and some eager customers even showed up at Jack Astor’s locations, hoping to be among the first to try the buzzworthy menu. But, as it turned out, the only thing infused in this story was a heavy dose of April Fools’ spirit.
Though it was just a joke, the prank underscored the growing interest in cannabis-infused dining experiences. With the rise of cannabis edibles and beverages, the idea of a THC-infused restaurant menu no longer seems far-fetched. While Jack Astor’s prank may have been all in good fun, it left many people wondering—how long before cannabis cuisine becomes a mainstream reality?
Delta 9’s ‘Winter Weed’ Strain (April 1, 2020)
On April 1, 2020, Canadian cannabis company Delta 9 announced the launch of a groundbreaking new strain: Winter Weed. Unlike regular cannabis, this strain was supposedly engineered to thrive in sub-zero temperatures, making it the perfect choice for Canada’s harsh winters. Even better, it claimed to produce extra frosty trichomes, promising an ultra-potent, “snowy high.”
The idea of a cold-resistant cannabis strain had many enthusiasts intrigued. Would this be a game-changer for outdoor cannabis cultivation in colder climates? Could growers finally ditch the indoor grow lights and let nature do the work?
Unfortunately, the announcement was nothing but one of the cleverest April Fools’ cannabis pranks. Delta 9 eventually revealed the joke, leaving some hopeful growers disappointed.
While Winter Weed wasn’t real, the prank did raise an interesting question. Could science eventually develop cold-resistant cannabis strains? With ongoing advancements in genetics and cultivation techniques, what seemed like an April Fools’ joke in 2020 might become a reality someday!
U.S. House Passes the MORE Act (April 1, 2022): A Real Moment or Just an April Fools' Cannabis Prank?
It might have sounded like a prank, but on April 1, 2022, the U.S. House of Representatives officially passed the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act. This bill aimed to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level and expunge certain marijuana-related convictions. It created social equity programs for communities impacted by the war on drugs.
Since the announcement came on April Fools’ Day, many people assumed it was just another one of those elaborate April Fools’ cannabis pranks circulating online. The irony? It was 100% real—but the excitement was short-lived. The bill never made it to past the Senate, ultimately fizzling out before becoming law.
Despite the setback, the event highlighted the ongoing push for federal cannabis reform. While the MORE Act didn’t become law, its passage in the House signaled that marijuana legalization was gaining mainstream political momentum. It also sparked discussions about the future of cannabis legislation and whether federal legalization could become a reality.
Unfortunately, for those hoping for immediate change, the moment turned out to be more of a false high than a lasting victory. However, it remains a milestone in the fight for cannabis policy reform in the U.S.
Calvin Johnson’s NFL Comeback Thanks to Cannabis (April 1, 2023)
On April 1, 2023, NFL legend Calvin Johnson, also known as “Megatron,” shocked fans with an unexpected announcement. He said he was coming out of retirement. The secret to his return? His CBD-based recovery products had supposedly worked so well that he felt game-ready once again.
Football fans and cannabis enthusiasts alike were electrified by the news. Johnson, who had pivoted to the cannabis industry after retiring from the NFL, had long been an advocate for CBD’s benefits in pain management and muscle recovery. If his products could help a retired superstar get back on the field, what could they do for everyday athletes?
Sadly, the excitement was short-lived. Johnson later revealed that the announcement was nothing but a well-played April Fools’ cannabis prank. While he had no plans of returning to the NFL, the joke highlighted a real issue! Many former athletes today turn to CBD and cannabis for pain relief instead of relying on traditional pharmaceuticals.
Even though Megatron won’t be suiting up again, his work in the cannabis wellness space continues to make an impact. It proves that CBD may not bring back careers, but it can certainly help with recovery and longevity.
Florida’s Supreme Court and the Legalization Cliffhanger (April 1, 2024)
April 1, 2024, was a nerve-wracking day for cannabis advocates in Florida. The state’s Supreme Court deliberated on whether recreational cannabis would make it onto the ballot. The stakes were high—legalization could mean a multi-billion-dollar industry boom, increased tax revenue, and greater personal freedom for Florida residents.
But the April Fools’ Day timing had many wondering if this was a real turning point or just the cruelest April Fools’ cannabis prank. Would Florida finally join the growing list of states embracing full cannabis legalization? Or would the movement be stalled yet again by legal hurdles?
As the day progressed, tension built across the state. Proponents of legalization remained hopeful, while opponents argued about potential risks. The Supreme Court’s decision was expected to be a landmark moment, influencing not only Florida’s cannabis market but also shaping broader national legalization trends.
Regardless of the outcome, the April 1 decision date added more suspense to an intense debate. Whether the ruling was a win or a setback, one thing was clear—cannabis legalization in Florida had reached a critical crossroads, and all eyes were watching.
BBC’s ‘Spaghetti-Tree Hoax’ (April 1, 1957) – A Legendary Prank
On April 1, 1957, the BBC aired one of the most iconic April Fools’ pranks. It was a segment featuring Swiss farmers harvesting spaghetti from trees. The footage showed women carefully plucking strands of pasta from tree branches and laying them out to dry in the sun. To add to the authenticity, the announcer casually explained that the mild winter weather had led to a bumper spaghetti crop that year.
The prank was so convincing that many viewers believed it to be authentic. Some even called the BBC to inquire how to grow spaghetti trees at home. The idea of fresh pasta growing on trees was too much for some to resist, especially when pasta was considered a rare treat for many families.
Although this prank had nothing to do with cannabis, it’s a classic example of how easily people can be fooled by well-executed media tricks. If only growing cannabis were as easy as harvesting spaghetti from a tree! The spaghetti-tree hoax remains a legendary moment in television history, proving that even the most absurd ideas can be made believable with the right execution. We’re thinking of our own brand of pre-roll seeds, by the way!
Taco Bell's ‘Taco Liberty Bell’ (April 1, 1996) – A Fast-Food Prank for the Ages
OK, this one’s not about cannabis either. But it goes to show how clever marketing can be used by virtually any company (not just dispensaries) on April Fools’ Day!
On April 1, 1996, Taco Bell pulled off one of the most legendary April Fools’ pranks in history. The fast-food giant published full-page ads in major newspapers. The ads said they had purchased the Liberty Bell and were renaming it the “Taco Liberty Bell” to help reduce the national debt.
The public reaction was immediate—and chaotic. Outraged citizens flooded the National Park Service with phone calls, furious that a national symbol of freedom was being sold to a fast-food chain. Others were confused, wondering if the government had resorted to corporate sponsorship to keep the country afloat.
Later that day, Taco Bell revealed the prank, much to the relief (and amusement) of everyone in the country. Even the White House joined in on the joke, with then-press secretary Mike McCurry quipping that the Lincoln Memorial had also been sold and would now be called the Ford Lincoln Mercury Memorial.
This prank remains one of the greatest April Fools’ marketing stunts of all time, proving that fast food and foolery go hand in hand—and that a well-played joke can earn a company massive publicity without spending millions.
Conclusion
April Fools’ cannabis pranks have been a source of laughter—and sometimes mild heartbreak—throughout the years, creating memorable moments within the cannabis community. From fake product launches to exaggerated legalization teasers and clever marketing stunts, these pranks serve as a reminder that cannabis culture has a vibrant, playful side. They show that even within the serious discussions around cannabis legislation and industry growth, there’s always room for some fun. As these pranks continue to evolve, it’s impossible not to wonder what will come next. Who knows? Maybe next year, 7Engines will pull off the best one yet, leaving the community guessing and laughing all over again. Until then, remember to stay lifted and skeptical. Also, always keep your guard up when April 1st rolls around!
The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your medical condition.
