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Growers’ Showcases Provide Cultivators & Retailers With Another Sales Outlet For Cannabis

By David Carlucci

The cannabis growers’ showcase is not a new concept in New York, but it has recently been expanded through state legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, and now the details are being crafted through proposed regulations. This is an important moment for local cannabis businesses and entrepreneurs to follow—and to add their thoughts during the public comment period.

In simple terms, the showcase permit allows licensed adult-use cannabis retailers, working together with licensed cultivators and processors, to hold temporary sales events at approved venues such as farmers markets, public markets, and pop-up locations. At these events, retailers can sell cannabis products directly to consumers outside of their permanent dispensary locations.

While showcases started as a way to boost consumer access during earlier phases of New York’s adult-use cannabis rollout, the recent legislative expansion is designed to make them a more permanent and flexible retail option. However, regulators are still finalizing the rules, including how often events can be held, security requirements, and how product sales and displays must operate to protect communities and ensure compliance.

Here are the basics under consideration:

• Retailers must partner with at least one licensed cultivator and one licensed processor to host a showcase event.
• Permits would be issued for up to 14 consecutive days, with a limit of 45 event days per location per year.
• Only the licensed retailer can sell products, though cultivators and processors can showcase their products for educational purposes.
• Events require venue approval and local municipal authorization.
• Security measures and age restrictions (21 and over) will be strictly enforced, with no on-site consumption allowed.

The showcase program has already proven popular and economically impactful by helping connect growers and consumers in new, community-friendly settings. Now, with the proposed regulations open for input through November 24, 2025, it’s the right time for business owners and community stakeholders in Rockland County and beyond to share their perspectives and help shape the future of this growing marketplace.

Comments can be submitted by email to regulations@ocm.ny.gov or mailed to the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, Albany.

This expansion represents a opportunity to grow New York’s cannabis market thoughtfully, balancing business innovation with community safeguards. Local entrepreneurs should pay close attention and actively participate in the process. Nothing in the new legislation would allow showcases in municipalities that have opted-out of retail cannabis sales.

David Carlucci consults organizations on navigating government and securing funding. He served for ten years in the New York Senate.