This is part of a special Ohai Chronicles series leading up to Spannabis week in Barcelona, taking place March 14–16, 2025. Whether you’re attending this year or manifesting the trip for the future, this guide will help you make the most of it. Stay tuned for upcoming articles covering, the cannabis social club scene, cannabis laws in Spain and how to network at Spannabis.

This year will be my third time at Spannabis, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the real magic happens outside the events, in social clubs, out in the city, and in spontaneous conversations you strike up (as you light up) with people from all over the world. It’s not just an expo, it’s an experience that takes over Barcelona for the week, bringing together a mix of industry insiders, brand activations, and all-night sessions that make the trip unforgettable.

Brands, growers, creatives, and enthusiasts from around the world show up to connect, explore new products, and get a pulse on where the industry is headed. Whether you're attending as a business professional, a connoisseur, or just a curious traveler, this week is packed with opportunities to discover, connect, and experience Barcelona beyond the event itself.

How to Plan for Spannabis Week

Spannabis week is a whirlwind, and how you approach it makes all the difference. The key? Keep your plans loose, stay open, and embrace the kind of moments that only happen when you’re in the right place at the right time.

The first time I went, I was lucky to be with Spannabis veterans—friends who had been attending for years. I had zero expectations and followed their flow, soaking it all in. Since it was also my first time in Barcelona, I took a few extra days to hit the tourist spots and galleries before diving into the event.

The second time around, I had a better sense of what I wanted from the trip. I locked in meetings with brands and industry contacts but left enough space for the spontaneous invites and chance encounters that make Spannabis what it is.

For my third Spannabis, I plan to focus on diving deeper into the social club culture—exploring new spots, seeing how brands activate within them, and getting a true sense of how Barcelona’s cannabis scene continues to evolve.

What to Expect at Spannabis

Spannabis is Europe’s largest cannabis expo, welcoming 35,000+ attendees from over 50 countries in 2024, its biggest year yet. Since its launch in 2002, the event has grown into a global hub for cannabis innovation, business, and culture.

With hundreds of exhibitors, Spannabis showcases cutting-edge cannabis technology, cultivation, THC products, accessories, and lifestyle brands. It’s not just a trade show—it’s an immersive experience, complete with live music, expert panels, and the Spannabis Champions Cup, a prestigious award recognizing the best in cannabis cultivation and production.

This expo can be overwhelming, but a few simple tricks can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. From avoiding long lines to staying comfortable and hydrated, here’s what I’ve learned from past years:

How to Navigate Spannabis with Ease

• Getting there – Spannabis takes place at Fira de Cornellà, located just outside Barcelona city center. The venue is about a 20-minute drive from central areas like Eixample or the Gothic Quarter. You can take the L5 Metro (Cornellà Centre stop), a taxi, Uber, or Cabify, but expect longer wait times during peak hours.

• Get your tickets early – Book your Spannabis tickets here. Lines get long, and availability can be limited.

• Bring cash – Some vendors only accept cash, and ATMs on-site often run out early.

• Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be on your feet all day, and navigating between booths and outdoor areas requires a lot of walking.

• Stay hydrated – Between long conversations and all-day consumption, dehydration sneaks up fast. A refillable water bottle is your best friend.

• Have a plan – The event is huge, so prioritize key booths, panels, and people you want to meet. Arrive early to avoid long lines, and if you're meeting someone, set a time and place in advance—it gets chaotic.

The Heart of Spannabis Week: Cannabis Lounges & Social Clubs

While Spannabis is the main event, the true pulse of the cannabis culture is found in Barcelona’s social clubs. Unlike the expo, where the focus is on industry connections and product showcases, the lounges offer a more intimate setting where conversations flow effortlessly. These clubs aren’t just about consumption—they’re the epicenter of Spannabis week, where exclusive drops, brand activations, and the best networking moments unfold. (Stay tuned for the next article in this series, where we’ll dive deeper into Barcelona’s social club culture.)

A Brief History of Cannabis Culture in Spain

Barcelona isn’t just a hub for cannabis—it’s a haven for hash lovers. Thanks to Spain’s proximity to Morocco, one of the world’s largest hash-producing regions, Barcelona has long been a gateway for North African hash into Europe. Step into the right social club, and you’ll be greeted with a lineup of hash alongside locally crafted rosin and top-tier flower. Over the years, Barcelona has evolved into a cannabis hub, thanks in part to its Cannabis Social Club model. Unlike Amsterdam’s retail-style coffee shops, Spain’s social clubs operate as private, member-only collectives, where cannabis can be purchased and consumed within the space.

Spain's long-standing hash culture makes Barcelona one of the most exciting cannabis destinations in the world, and during Spannabis week, the city’s clubs take center stage with a community-driven vibe you won’t find anywhere else.

Where to Go Beyond Spannabis

While Spannabis is the main attraction, Barcelona itself is part of the experience. The city is home to some of the best food, culture, and cannabis social clubs in the world. Over the years, I’ve found that some of the best memories from Spannabis don’t happen at the expo but in tapas bars, seaside walks, and late-night conversations at hidden gems across the city. If you have extra time, here are some of my favorite places to eat, drink, and explore.

Best Places to Eat & Drink

• Bar Cañete – Classic Spanish tapas with an upscale vibe.
• Ultramarinos – Elevated dining with a focus on fresh seafood.
• Boqueria Market – A food lover’s paradise with endless options.
• Cerveceria Catalana – Popular casual psot for Spanish tapas. Open until 1am, it is great for those late night munchies.

Must-See Barcelona Spots

• La Sagrada Família – Gaudí’s masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Parc Güell – Stunning park with whimsical architecture and city views.
• Barceloneta Beach – Perfect for unwinding after a long day.
• The Gothic Quarter – A historic area full of hidden gems and lively streets.
• Moco Museum – A contemporary art museum with a fresh, modern perspective.

Parting Thoughts

Every time I leave Spannabis, I walk away with new friends, fresh ideas, and a reminder of why I love this space. Whether you're here for business, pleasure, or a little of both, soak it in, stay open, and make the most of it. The magic of Spannabis isn’t just in the expo—it’s in the people, the places, and the unexpected moments in between.

Whether you’re here for the expo, the lounges, or the late-night sessions, Spannabis is an experience that stays with you long after you leave Barcelona. See you there!