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Ohio Cannabis Expo Heads South: The Portsmouth Pivot & Free Admission for All


BREAKING: Big news is coming out of the Ohio Cannabis Expo headquarters! If you've been following our journey across the Buckeye State, you know we’re all about bringing the heat to every corner of the industry. But today, I’m excited to share a massive update that’s going to change the game for our summer schedule.

We are officially pivoting south!

On July 24th, the Ohio Cannabis Expo is heading to the historic city of Portsmouth, Ohio. We’re setting up shop at the Scioto County Welcome Center, and here’s the kicker: we’ve decided to make this event completely free for all attendees.

You read that right. Tickets are required, but they are free head over to our websit to get your ticket please only select on ticket for each person. Afroman tickets are separate from the expo.

1. Why the "Portsmouth Pivot"?

You might be wondering why we’re shifting our focus to Southern Ohio. For too long, the major cannabis events in Ohio have been concentrated in the "Big Three" cities, Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. While we love our urban hubs, the heart of the Ohio cannabis movement beats just as strongly in the smaller, tight-knit communities that are often overlooked.

Southern Ohio is a powerhouse of potential. By moving this expo to Portsmouth, we’re bringing the industry directly to the hardworking folks who are building the foundation of this market. We’re talking about the cultivators, the processors, and the independent dispensary owners who are the true backbone of the Appalachian cannabis scene.

Community leaders in Portsmouth

2. Free Admission: Breaking Down the Barriers

Let’s talk about the "Free for All" model. Why are we doing it? Because we believe that access to information and networking shouldn't come with a price tag.

Whether you’re a licensed business owner looking for a new equipment partner or a curious local resident wanting to learn about the medical benefits of the plant, you shouldn't have to worry about a registration fee. This event is about:

  • Accessibility: Making sure everyone, from small-scale growers to curious patients, can walk through the door.

  • Networking: Connecting local ancillary businesses with the bigger players in the state.

  • Community Spirit: Building trust in a region that has historically faced challenges but is now looking toward a greener future.

If you’ve been looking for ohio cannabis events that actually prioritize people over profits, this is the one. You can still head over to our tickets page to see our other scheduled stops, but for Portsmouth? Just show up and get involved!

4. What to Expect at the Scioto County Welcome Center

The venue itself is a symbol of our mission. The Scioto County Welcome Center is right in the heart of Portsmouth, and it’s the perfect spot to host a day of high-impact networking. Just as important, the event is designed to stay free for all attendees 21+, because this stop is about access, education, and community connection first.

Here’s what you can expect when you walk in:

  • Legislative & Policy Update: Get grounded in the latest Ohio cannabis rules, policy developments, and what they could mean for operators, advocates, and the broader community.

  • Home Grow Workshop: Expect practical education for attendees who want to better understand home grow, responsible cultivation basics, and the conversations shaping access in Ohio.

  • Opioids, Cannabis & Recovery: This pillar brings an important community conversation to the forefront, exploring cannabis through the lens of recovery, public health, and real regional impact.

  • Expert Speakers: Hear from industry leaders who are navigating the latest regulatory changes, from SB56 to federal scheduling updates. Check out our speakers' list for more info on who might be popping in.

  • VIP Mixer: The official VIP Mixer will take place at Holiday Inn Portsmouth Downtown, 711 Second St, Portsmouth, from 6–8 PM.

Scioto County Welcome Center

5. Afroman Live in Portsmouth: The Celebration Keeps Going

And it gets even better! We’re teaming up with GrownuP ProducKtions LLP and the Ohio Cannabis Expo to bring Afroman Live to Portsmouth on Friday, July 24, 2026.

This will be a completely free concert on the river at the Boneyfiddle Live @ The River Front venue. Please note this concert is at a different location than the expo, so if you’re planning to attend both, make sure you map out your evening in advance.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Free admission: Just like the expo, the concert is free to attend.

  • Different venue: The concert takes place at 200 Second Street, Portsmouth Ohio, Boneyfiddle Live @ The River Front, not at the Scioto County Welcome Center.

  • Outdoor event: This is a rain or shine show, so dress for the weather and come prepared.

  • More than one performance: Other local acts will also be performing, with music starting around 5 PM.

  • Parking heads-up: Parking will fill up fast, so plan accordingly and give yourself extra time.

If you’re looking for a full Portsmouth experience, this is it. Come for the expo, stay for the music, and enjoy a big community moment on the river!

6. How to Prepare for the Day

Ready to make the trip? Whether you’re driving down from Columbus or coming across the river from Kentucky, here’s how to make the most of your time:

  1. Bring Your Business Cards: This is a prime networking event. You’ll be rubbing elbows with the movers and shakers of Southern Ohio.

  2. Do Your Research: If you’re a business owner, look into our exhibitor options if you want to have an even bigger presence at our future shows.

  3. Prepare Your Questions: This is your chance to get the inside scoop on the medical program and the adult-use rollout.

  4. Spread the Word: Since it’s free for attendees 21+, bring your team and invite your network. This is a strong opportunity to connect your dispensary, cultivation, processing, or ancillary business with the wider Southern Ohio community.

  5. Plan for the concert: If you’re also heading to Afroman Live, remember it’s at a different location on the river, it’s outdoors, and parking may fill up quickly.

7. Exhibitor Opportunities and Sponsorship Packages

If you want to support the Portsmouth stop while helping us keep admission free for the community, here’s what the official 2026 Portsmouth pitch deck offers:

Exhibitor Opportunities

  • Small Business (1–5 employees): $250

  • Standard Non-Licensed Company: $700

  • Licensed Cannabis Company: $1,000

Sponsorship Packages

  • Bronze: $250

  • Gold: $1,000

  • Silver: $2,500

  • Platinum: $5,000

These packages help power a community-driven event that removes barriers and keeps the doors open for free 21+ attendance. If you want to show up, support the region, and build real relationships in Southern Ohio, this is your chance.

8. The Future of Ohio Cannabis is Local

The "Portsmouth Pivot" is more than just a change of scenery. It’s a statement. We believe that the legal cannabis industry should belong to the people who fought for it. By taking the Ohio Cannabis Expo south and making it free, we’re putting our money where our mouth is.

We are so proud to partner with the Scioto County community. The resilience, grit, and passion of Southern Ohio are exactly what this industry needs more of. We aren't just here to sell things; we’re here to build relationships that last.

Ready to join the movement?

Mark your calendars for July 24th. We’ll be waiting for you at the Scioto County Welcome Center. Let’s show the rest of the state how Southern Ohio does cannabis!

Stay tuned to our blog for more live updates as we get closer to the big day. We’ll see you in Portsmouth!


 
 
 

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