OnlyWAI at the DC State Fair
First off I want to start by introducing OnlyWAI (pronounced way) to all those that aren't currently aware. OnlyWAI is a lifestyle brand focusing on advocating and informing the public about marijuana and it's current state of fighting towards reform. I was contacted by the good people over at WAI, amongst a few others, to help with the visual side of their mission to help delete the negative stigma that is currently surrounded by the plant and it's been a blast ever since. (Now back to the State fair)
Every year around the time Summer ends and Fall begins, the District holds it's annual state fair featuring the best of agriculture and produce from DC's top growers. With marijuana recently becoming legal for recreational use, it was only right that this year they also featured DC's top Canna-farmers (cannabis farmers for all those following along). The fair featured everyone from growers to energy drink distributors to gardening supplies and many other products produced from the plant.
As a long-time supporter of the plant and all of it's many uses, it was a bit surreal to actually witness all that was taking place. In typical State fair fashion, there was a viewing and sampling, followed by a contest to determine who grew the best bud of the year. Growers in the pot-growing contest were judged on appearance, odor and touch, including how sticky the stem is and whether or not it bends and snaps.
For me, it wasn't about who won or lost (mostly cause I missed that part lol) but just witnessing artists finally able to share their craft with the community was a beautiful thing. The whole area smelled of strong bud, an odor that carried over into a very positive and friendly environment. Everyone taking pictures, shaking hands, starting conversations all around this plant that we've been conditioned to believe is bad. It was truly amazing to actually witness in person, people of all different backgrounds coming together to appreciate the same thing.... sounds a lot like the start of world peace to me. Congratulations to all the growers that came out to enjoy this electric occasion, especially those that placed. This was about pushing the culture and getting the community much more comfortable with it.
Written by: Yogi
Photos courtesy of: Dzniel (@dzniel) & Yogi for OnlyWAI (@onlywai)