New York State Office of Cannabis Management Celebrates First Cannabis Showcase Event, Marking New Opportunities for Farmers and Small Businesses

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:30:10 GMT

Finger Lakes Growers Showcase Demonstrates Safe, Regulated Pathway for Direct-to-Consumer Sales

Licensed Growers can Engage Directly with Consumers (21+) at Regulated Pop-Up Experiences

GORHAM, NY — The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is celebrating the State’s first cannabis showcase event, a milestone moment for New York’s cannabis industry that expands opportunities for licensed farmers, processors, and small businesses to connect directly with consumers in permitted spaces outside of a licensed dispensary.

The Finger Lakes Growers Showcase, taking place June 28, at Lincoln Hill Farms in Canandaigua, marks the first in a series of approved cannabis showcase events under New York’s Cannabis Law.

Evergreen Retail (Brockport, NY), in partnership with Lincoln Hill Farms and 11 other participating cultivators and processors will host the Finger Lakes Growers Showcase Summer Series on June 28, July 26, August 1 through August 9. The events will run alongside Lincoln Hill Farms’ Sunday Sessions, featuring live music, food, and additional attractions.

“Cannabis showcase events represent an exciting next step in the evolution of New York’s cannabis market,” said John Kagia, Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. “They create new opportunities for licensed farmers and processors to reach consumers directly, while operating within a clear, regulated framework that prioritizes safety, transparency, and accountability. This is about supporting small businesses and giving New Yorkers more ways to engage with the legal market.

The June 28 event will feature 12 licensed New York State cultivators and processors, offering attendees the opportunity to learn about locally produced cannabis and purchase products on-site from approved vendors, something made possible under recently implemented cannabis showcase event regulations.

“Facilitating this historic event is something I’m incredibly proud of. By bringing together consumers and producers, we have the opportunity to highlight the talented, independent craft cultivators and makers from within and around the Finger Lakes region. These small businesses are helping shape New York’s cannabis industry, and this event provides a meaningful way to connect people with the passion, quality, and stories behind some of the finest products in the state.” Said Karen Tobin, Owner of Evergreen Retail in Brockport

“The Finger Lakes Growers Showcase event is a milestone moment for everyone involved. We're thankful for the opportunity to show the local community and NYS what small batch producers are all about! All cultivators and processors are mom-and-pop companies that emphasize quality over quantity. It's an honor to be part of this historic event with some of New York's best small-batch farmers and processors. I hope the community enjoys meeting the farmers behind the brands. We appreciate your support of craft cannabis in NYS. Thank you!” Said Curt Boshnack, Founder & CEO of Sunwalker Farms

“For many of us, this is what we hoped New York cannabis could look like: an opportunity for consumers to meet the farmers, processors, and small businesses building this industry from the ground up. As a small processor, opportunities like this are invaluable because they allow us to connect directly with consumers and showcase the people behind the products. Those connections are essential to building a strong, sustainable, and equitable cannabis market that supports local agriculture and independent operators.” Said Ashley Baron, Owner of Snowbelt Cannabis, Processor

“As a woman-owned New York cannabis microbusiness, being invited to participate in the Micro Growers Showcase hosted by Evergreen Retail and Sunwalker Farm is incredibly meaningful. We are grateful for the opportunity to share our story, connect with the community, and showcase the value of locally crafted cannabis products. Events like this highlight the small businesses helping shape the future of New York’s cannabis industry. This showcase is more than an event—it celebrates independent operators, the microbusiness model, and the diverse entrepreneurs building a stronger, more locally driven cannabis market for generations to come.” Said Jessica Shelp, Founder and Owner of Grass Roots Wellness

“As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential that the voices and contributions of independent small operators remain visible and valued. Cannabis is more than a product, it is a culture, a craft, and for many of us, a life’s work. This showcase honors the people behind that work. Said Joesph Irizarri, Owner of Oasis Cannabis

“Cannabis Showcase Events create a unique opportunity for growers and processors to connect directly with consumers, build relationships, and share the stories behind our products. As a small producer, those connections are invaluable and help build the trust and loyalty that sustain local businesses. We’re especially excited to be part of the Finger Lakes showcase, a region known for its rich agricultural heritage and strong sense of community. Bringing together some of New York’s best craft cultivators and processors, this event highlights the quality, passion, and innovation driving the state’s cannabis industry forward.” Said Zachary Sarkis, Owner of FLWR CITY COLLECTIVE / G-FLOWER

Cannabis showcase events are subject to strict oversight, including age restrictions (21+), secure product handling requirements, and require approval from local authorities. These safeguards ensure that events operateresponsibly while supporting the continued growth of New York’s legal cannabis marketplace.

By creating new pathways for direct-to-consumer engagement, showcase events help strengthen the State’s network of small and independent cannabis businesses, particularly in regions like the Finger Lakes, where agriculture and tourism intersect. OCM continues to work closely with municipalities, event organizers, and licensees to ensure these events are implemented safely and successfully across New York State.

The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM ) is committed to building a safe, equitable, and sustainable cannabis industry. Through licensing, education, and enforcement, OCM supports small businesses, protects consumers, and ensures the integrity of New York’s regulated cannabis market. On March 20, 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation into law permitting Cannabis Showcase Events (CSEs) , allowing licensed adult-use dispensaries to partner with licensed cultivators and processors to showcase and sell adult-use cannabis products at approved temporary locations, including pop-up events, farmers’ markets, and public markets. These events are subject to strict regulatory requirements to ensure safe, compliant operations.

Follow @nys_cannabis on social media for updates.

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New York State Office of Cannabis Management Celebrates First Cannabis Showcase Event, Marking New Opportunities for Farmers and Small Businesses