The European cannabis industry is experiencing an unprecedented period of transformation and growth, particularly following Germany's landmark legalization in April 2024, which has positioned the country as the epicenter of Europe's emerging cannabis market. With Germany already hosting the continent's largest medical cannabis market and now implementing adult-use legalization, the ripple effects are being felt across the European Union. Industry projections suggest the European legal cannabis market could reach €3.2 billion by 2025, with continued exponential growth expected throughout the decade as more countries modernize their cannabis policies.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, cannabis industry events—conferences, tradeshows, exhibitions, and festivals—serve as critical catalysts for innovation, networking, and knowledge exchange. These gatherings bring together policymakers, researchers, cultivators, investors, healthcare professionals, and entrepreneurs from across the continent and beyond, fostering the collaborative ecosystem necessary for the industry's maturation. From Berlin's massive Mary Jane Festival, which drew over 65,000 attendees in 2025, to London's intimate Cannabis Europa conference connecting decision-makers with investors, Europe's cannabis event calendar offers unparalleled opportunities for business development and education.

The diversity of these events reflects the industry's multifaceted nature: B2B tradeshows like ICBC Berlin facilitate international commerce; specialized conferences such as Cannabis Europa drive policy discussions; cultural festivals like Spannabis celebrate cannabis heritage; and medical symposiums advance therapeutic applications. For businesses seeking to maximize their presence at these pivotal gatherings, companies like MunchMakers offer exceptional custom merchandise and branded accessories that help companies stand out in competitive exhibition halls and leave lasting impressions on potential partners and clients.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for stakeholders planning to engage with the European cannabis industry between November 22, 2025, and June 30, 2026. Whether you're an investor seeking opportunities, a cultivator exploring new markets, a healthcare provider advancing medical cannabis knowledge, or an entrepreneur launching products, these events represent invaluable platforms for achieving your business objectives in Europe's dynamic cannabis sector.

Upcoming European Cannabis Events (November 2025 - June 2026): At a Glance

Important Notes:

• Event details for 2026 are subject to change. Always verify dates, locations, and registration details on official event websites.
• Some 2026 dates are marked as "TBC" (To Be Confirmed) as organizers typically announce exact dates 6-12 months in advance.
• Events beyond June 30, 2026 are included for planning purposes as many attendees book travel and accommodations well in advance.
• Additional regional events and smaller conferences may emerge as the European cannabis market continues to expand.

Understanding Europe's Green Revolution: Cannabis Industry & Regulatory Climate (Late 2025/Early 2026 Snapshot)

The German Catalyst: Europe's Cannabis Leadership

Germany's cannabis legalization in April 2024 represents a watershed moment for European cannabis policy. The country implemented a two-pillar approach: Pillar One, which took effect immediately, allows adults to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis in public and 50 grams at home, cultivate up to three plants per adult (maximum of six per household), and join non-profit cannabis social clubs. Pillar Two, focused on regulated commercial markets through regional pilot programs, is being developed for implementation.

This legislative shift has transformed Germany into Europe's cannabis epicenter. Already home to the continent's largest medical cannabis market—with approximately 300,000 patients accessing cannabis therapeutics—Germany's dual medical and adult-use framework attracts significant international investment and positions Berlin as the natural hub for Europe's largest cannabis events. The ripple effects across neighboring countries are profound, with policy discussions intensifying in France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and beyond.

The Patchwork of European Cannabis Regulation

Medical Cannabis Markets: Beyond Germany, numerous European countries have established medical cannabis programs with varying degrees of accessibility. The Netherlands maintains its decades-old system through pharmacies and coffeeshops. Italy allows medical cannabis cultivation and prescription access. The United Kingdom permits medical cannabis prescriptions, though access remains limited. Portugal, while maintaining decriminalization of personal possession since 2001, has developed a robust medical cannabis framework and has emerged as the world's second-largest exporter of medical cannabis products, making it a key player in the European supply chain.

Personal Use Models: Malta became the first EU nation to legalize adult-use cannabis in December 2021, allowing home cultivation and non-profit cannabis associations. Luxembourg followed in 2023 with home cultivation provisions. The Czech Republic permits possession of small amounts and has a long history of tolerance, reflected in events like Cannafest. Spain's cannabis social club model, while operating in a legal gray area, has created a vibrant cannabis culture, particularly in Catalonia, though regulatory uncertainty persists.

Industrial Hemp: The EU defines industrial hemp as Cannabis sativa L. with THC content below 0.3% (raised from 0.2% in 2023). Hemp cultivation is legal across most member states with proper licensing, supporting diverse industries including textiles, construction materials, food products, and CBD extraction. This sector continues expanding as sustainability concerns drive demand for hemp-based alternatives to conventional materials.

The Business Landscape: Investment and Innovation

European cannabis investment has surged following Germany's legalization, with venture capital, private equity, and public markets showing renewed interest. Medical cannabis companies are expanding cultivation facilities and distribution networks. Technology providers are developing solutions for compliance tracking, genetics optimization, and supply chain management. Ancillary businesses—from specialized legal services to custom manufacturing for branded merchandise (where companies like MunchMakers excel in providing custom-branded grinders, rolling trays, and accessories for cannabis businesses)—are thriving.

The conference and tradeshow circuit has become essential infrastructure for this growth. Events facilitate critical business development activities: international partnerships, investment capital formation, market intelligence gathering, regulatory updates, and product launches. The shift of Spannabis from Barcelona to Bilbao and the explosive growth of Mary Jane Berlin exemplify the industry's maturation and geographic evolution.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite progress, European cannabis markets face significant challenges. Regulatory fragmentation across member states complicates cross-border trade and business operations. Banking and financial services remain restricted in many jurisdictions. High taxation in medical markets affects patient access and affordability. The tension between national sovereignty over drug policy and EU single market principles creates ongoing legal complexity.

Looking toward mid-2026 and beyond, continued policy liberalization seems probable. Germany's experience will inform other nations' approaches. The United Nations' evolving stance on cannabis scheduling influences European perspectives. Growing public acceptance, driven by medical evidence and successful international models, builds political momentum for reform.

For businesses, this dynamic environment demands agility, strong legal guidance, and robust networks—all fostered through active participation in industry events. The conferences and tradeshows detailed in this guide represent not merely networking opportunities but strategic imperatives for success in Europe's rapidly evolving cannabis sector.

Event Spotlight: Key Conferences and Tradeshows Explained

Mary Jane Berlin: The Continental Flagship

Having grown from 9,000 attendees in 2016 to over 65,000 in 2025, Mary Jane Berlin has established itself as the world's largest cannabis festival and trade fair. The event combines serious B2B commerce on its dedicated business day with a sprawling three-day consumer festival featuring 500+ exhibitors, live music, educational seminars, and celebration of cannabis culture. For companies seeking to establish or expand European market presence, Mary Jane represents an unparalleled opportunity for visibility and engagement. The event's location at Messe Berlin—a premier European exhibition facility—provides world-class infrastructure for both exhibitors and attendees.

International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) Berlin: The Deal-Making Hub

ICBC Berlin focuses squarely on international B2B relationships and investment opportunities. As Europe's longest-running cannabis B2B event, it attracts serious industry players: cultivators seeking distribution agreements, technology companies launching European operations, investors evaluating opportunities, and entrepreneurs building partnerships. The conference programming emphasizes market intelligence, regulatory updates, and strategic business development. For those prioritizing substantive business outcomes over consumer engagement, ICBC delivers targeted networking in a professional environment.

Cannabis Europa London: Policy Meets Commerce

Cannabis Europa distinguishes itself through its focus on the intersection of policy, medical research, and business development. The London edition brings together policymakers, pharmaceutical industry leaders, medical researchers, and entrepreneurs in intimate settings designed for substantive dialogue. With typically 1,500 attendees, the event maintains a boutique atmosphere that facilitates deeper conversations than mega-tradeshows allow. The inclusion of the Business of Cannabis Awards ceremony adds recognition elements that enhance networking opportunities. For companies operating in medical cannabis or seeking to influence policy development, Cannabis Europa is essential.

Spannabis Bilbao: Celebrating Cannabis Heritage

After 22 years in Barcelona, Spannabis relocated to Bilbao for 2026, marking a new chapter for Europe's oldest and most culturally significant cannabis event. Famous for being the world's premier seed market, Spannabis attracts breeders, growers, and cannabis enthusiasts from across the globe. The event combines a massive tradeshow floor with the Spannabis Cup competition, educational programming, and celebration of cannabis culture. Despite the venue change, the event's essence remains: showcasing cutting-edge genetics, cultivation technology, and cannabis products while honoring the plant's cultural significance. The new Bilbao Exhibition Centre offers state-of-the-art facilities and the potential for continued growth.

Making the Most of Cannabis Events: Strategic Participation

Successfully leveraging cannabis events requires strategic planning:

Pre-Event Preparation: Research attendee lists, schedule meetings in advance, prepare marketing materials, and establish clear objectives. Companies should ensure their booth presence—if exhibiting—communicates brand identity effectively. Custom-branded merchandise and accessories from specialized suppliers like MunchMakers can significantly enhance brand recall, providing functional items that attendees use long after the event concludes.

Active Engagement: Attend seminars and workshops, participate in networking sessions, and engage meaningfully with exhibitors and fellow attendees. Quality interactions matter more than quantity—focus on building relationships that can develop into partnerships.

Post-Event Follow-Up: The real work begins after the event. Promptly follow up with contacts, schedule follow-on meetings, and nurture relationships systematically. Many successful partnerships trace their origins to event introductions that were properly cultivated afterward.

Multiple Touchpoints: Consider attending several events throughout the year. The European circuit offers diverse opportunities: ICBC Berlin for serious B2B in April, Cannabis Europa London for policy and medical focus in May, and Mary Jane Berlin for massive visibility in June. This approach maximizes market intelligence gathering and relationship building across different industry segments.

Practical Considerations for International Attendees

Travel and Logistics

Major European cannabis events take place in well-connected cities with excellent international transportation infrastructure. Berlin, London, and Bilbao all offer international airport access with frequent connections to major global hubs. Book accommodations early, as popular events often fill nearby hotels months in advance. Many events offer hotel partnership programs with discounted rates for registered attendees.

Regulatory Awareness for Travelers

Cannabis laws vary dramatically across Europe. While attending cannabis events is legal, travelers should understand local regulations regarding possession, consumption, and transportation. Even in countries with liberalized policies, international transport of cannabis products typically remains prohibited. Cannabis remains illegal under international drug control treaties, affecting cross-border movement regardless of national laws.

Language and Cultural Considerations

While English serves as the lingua franca of international cannabis business, some familiarity with local languages and customs enhances experiences. German events may feature German-language programming alongside English sessions. Spanish events similarly incorporate both languages. Most major events provide multilingual support for international attendees.

Networking Etiquette

European business culture emphasizes building genuine relationships before transacting business. Allow time for substantive conversations rather than rushing to "close deals." Exchange contact information and follow up thoughtfully. Respect cultural differences in business communication styles—Northern European cultures tend toward directness, while Southern European approaches often emphasize relationship building.

Conclusion: Seizing Europe's Cannabis Opportunity

The period from late 2025 through mid-2026 represents a critical juncture for European cannabis. Germany's legalization is spurring continental policy discussions. Investment capital is flowing into promising ventures. Medical cannabis access is expanding. Consumer markets are emerging. This confluence creates extraordinary opportunities for businesses positioned to capitalize on them.

Cannabis events—from Berlin's massive Mary Jane Festival to London's intimate Cannabis Europa conference—serve as essential catalysts for success in this dynamic market. They provide the market intelligence, professional relationships, and strategic insights necessary for navigating Europe's complex and rapidly evolving cannabis landscape.

For entrepreneurs, investors, cultivators, medical professionals, policy advocates, and service providers, active engagement with Europe's cannabis event circuit isn't optional—it's imperative. The connections forged, knowledge gained, and opportunities discovered at these gatherings will shape the trajectory of careers and companies for years to come.

As you plan your European cannabis event calendar for 2026, remember that success extends beyond attendance. It requires preparation, active engagement, strategic follow-up, and consistent relationship nurturing. Whether you're launching products, seeking partnerships, raising capital, or advancing medical research, these events offer platforms for achieving your objectives.

The European cannabis industry's future is being written now, at conferences in Berlin, tradeshows in London, festivals in Bilbao, and exhibitions in Vienna. Will you be part of that story?

For companies seeking to maximize their impact at cannabis events through exceptional custom-branded merchandise—grinders, rolling trays, ashtrays, and other accessories that leave lasting impressions—visit MunchMakers to explore solutions tailored for the cannabis industry.

Additional Resources

Industry Publications and News Sources

• CannaReporter: European cannabis news and industry insights
• Cannabis Europa: Policy and business intelligence
• Leafie (UK): British and European cannabis news
• Hanf Magazin (Germany): German-language cannabis industry coverage
• MJBizDaily International: Global cannabis business news with European focus

Industry Associations and Organizations

• European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA): Advocacy and information for hemp sector
• European Cannabis Industry Council (EUCIC): Industry representation at EU level
• Austrian Cannabis Association (ÖCB): Austrian advocacy and education
• ARGE CANNA (Austria): Cannabis industry working group
• UK Cannabis Industry Council: British industry representation

Event Aggregators and Directories

• CannIntelligence Events: Comprehensive global cannabis event listings
• Cannavigia Events: International cannabis conference and expo directory
• 10Times: Global tradeshow database with cannabis event listings

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about European cannabis events scheduled between November 22, 2025, and June 30, 2026. Event details including dates, locations, and programming are subject to change by organizers. Readers should verify all information directly with official event websites before making travel arrangements or business commitments. This guide does not constitute legal, financial, or business advice. Cannabis regulations vary significantly across European jurisdictions; readers are responsible for understanding and complying with applicable laws in their locations and travel destinations. The inclusion of events in this guide does not constitute endorsement of specific conferences, organizations, or companies. Event organizers have not paid for inclusion in this guide.

Article compiled: November 2025 | Information accurate as of publication date | For updates and corrections, please contact event organizers directly.