A celebration of cannabis, returning this weekend to the Kutztown area, is set to feature the story of — and appearances by — freed Russian prisoner Marc Fogel, according to organizers.

Fogel is an American history teacher from the Pittsburgh area who was traveling to Russia in 2021 to work at a Moscow school when he was detained. His family and supporters said he had been traveling with medically prescribed marijuana.

Almost a year later, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison.

The United States negotiated his release in February in a prisoner swap between the two superpower nations.

Organizers of this weekend’s Pennsylvania Cannabis Festival: Fall Marketplace say they’ll share Fogel’s story with a dedicated space called the Marc Fogel Freedom Lounge.

The festival is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 4-5, at Renninger’s Farmer’s Market, 740 Noble St. in Maxatawny Township just south of the university town’s border.

In its 11th year, the biannual Pennsylvania Cannabis Festival “is a space where cannabis is embraced as a path to wellness, to empowerment, to connection, and to a more open-minded, compassionate future,” organizers with eastern Pennsylvania-based Zick Productions said in a news release.

“The event brings together an ever-growing movement of small businesses, big brands, and visionaries who are reshaping how we understand health and personal freedom — reminding us that progress requires people standing together for something better,” the release continues. “With this event, we hope to draw those people to Berks County, all while supporting the local economy with lodging, dining, and shopping.”

Admission is $20 each day, and attendees must be at least 21 years old. Leashed, friendly pets are permitted.

Fogel is confirmed to attend both days of the festival, Zick Productions’ Brianna Louder told lehighvalleylive.com.

The Marc Fogel Freedom Lounge is described as a dedicated space created to honor his homecoming from what advocates say was wrongful imprisonment.

“It’s going to be a nice space for guests to relax, connect and meet Marc while learning more about cannabis prisoners,” Louder explained in an email.

Key features of the lounge, located in one of the festival’s pavilions, include an LED wall with a curated, visual loop sharing Fogel’s story; picnic table seating and decorative installations.

Organizers say those in attendance this weekend can expect “friendly, inclusive vibes” with:

• 200-plus vendors with a plethora of unique goods.
• Innovative cannabis brands from across the country.
• Handcrafted items, cannabis wellness products and accessories.
• Educational and advocacy exhibits.
• Medical marijuana card certifications on-site.
• A variety of food trucks.

Visit fallmarketplace.com for additional details.