In the rapidly evolving cannabis landscape, setbacks are part of the journey—but how a community responds defines its strength. Earlier this week, it was announced that NECANN NY 2025 has been postponed. While no one wanted this news, especially so close to what would have been a landmark gathering in Rochester, the spirit of connection, culture, and collaboration that drives our industry does not stop. That’s why Roc and Roll Weekend is moving forward as planned, Sept 19-21 in Rochester, NY.

We recognize the disappointment many feel. NECANN NY has long been a focal point for cannabis entrepreneurs, advocates, and enthusiasts across New York State. Its postponement ripples across our calendars, plans, and expectations. But it also presents an opportunity—a chance for us to double down, to rally our community, and to demonstrate what being connected really looks like.

We’re too far along to cancel or scale back. The relationships, the venues, the momentum – it’s all real, and it’s all happening. So instead of letting plans dissolve, we’re here to make sure that this weekend remains a destination: a place to meet, to greet, to learn, and to grow.

What Roc and Roll Weekend Looks Like

Here’s how the weekend will unfold:

1. Friday, Sept 19 — SkyHigh @ The StrathallanStart the weekend in style. Atop The Strathallan, expect rooftop music, infused bites, drinks, conversations under the sky— networking meets ambiance meets elevated vibes.
   
   
2. Saturday, Sept 20 — Speakeasy Industry Kickback (Invite-Only)A gathering behind closed doors, for industry insiders— brands, licensees, advocates, and equity stakeholders. Think curated conversations, brand activations, nostalgia-tinged design, and an atmosphere of real connection away from the expo floor.
   
   
3. Sunday, Sept 21 — The High Tee Fall ClassicFresh air, fairway rituals, mini-games, food, and the brands you want to meet. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just in it for the greens and good times, this day is built for fun, networking, and making long-term connections.

This isn’t just about filling a gap. It’s about preserving the energy that propels this industry forward. The cannabis sector in New York is still young, still fighting for equity, authenticity, and mainstream integration. When big events shift or change, it’s a chance for smaller, intentional gatherings to carry forward values too often lost: trust, community, identity, and opportunity.

Roc and Roll Weekend isn’t intended as a replacement for NECANN—but as a complement to the needs of this moment. Brands still want to launch. Operators still want to meet. Advocates still need a space. Consumers still deserve culture. We’re showing up for all of that.

How You Can Be Part of It

If you were planning to attend NECANN NY or associated side events, this is your weekend now. Here’s how to plug in:

1. Register now – Tickets and invite-only passes are available. Secure your Friday rooftop, Saturday speakeasy, Sunday golf.
   
   
2. Spread the word – Tell your teams, your partners, your followers. Share that Rochester is still the place to be Sept 19-21.
   
   
3. Plan your schedule – With NECANN postponed, there’s space to get creative: meetups, pop-ups, spontaneous brand dinners, local dispensary visits, or media sessions.
   
   
4. Stay safe & compliant – All events happen under best practices. We’ll ensure local regulations are respected, venues are secure, and experiences are high-quality and responsible.

We believe in collaboration, not competition. We believe in resilience, not retreat. This moment may require rethinking, but it doesn’t require giving up. Once NECANN NY returns, so will we, ready to partner and build alongside it. Until then, Roc and Roll Weekend is our statement: that the NY cannabis community is alive, driven, and ready for what’s next.

See You in Rochester

So mark your calendar. Book your travel. Let’s make Sept 19-21 more than just dates—they’re a promise. A promise that when big events shift, community doesn’t descend into silence. It rises, adapts, and shows up with intention.

Rochester is ready. The industry is ready. Let’s come together for Roc and Roll Weekend, and prove that even when plans change, the purpose remains.