Tips for SMART Gatherings This Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for food, fun, laughter, and connecting with the people who make life sweeter. And as more adults in New Jersey choose to enjoy, or gift legal cannabis during the season, the NJ-CRC has launched its second safe-use campaign, S.M.A.R.T., to help keep celebrations (relatively) stress-free.

S.M.A.R.T. is an easy way to remember the basics of responsible cannabis use, especially when travel is constant, roads are chaotic, homes are busy, and curious little ones are wandering.

S is for Safe

Cannabis is legal in New Jersey for adults 21 and over, but safe use still comes down to personal choices.

If you plan to enjoy cannabis this holiday season, be safe and:

· Only shop at licensed dispensaries.

· Read the packaging information carefully.

· Store cannabis away safely, away from kids, and anyone else who shouldn't have it (this may include grandma and any other adults taking prescription medication).

Licensed dispensaries sell regulated products that are tested, properly labeled, packaged in child-resistant resealable containers, and safer than anything sold by unlicensed sellers. Remember that where you shop matters, and that safe use always starts with you.

M is for Mindful

More gatherings mean more travel. More travel means more opportunities to make the right choice. If you use cannabis – in any form, don’t drive. It’s that simple.

Being mindful means planning.

· Use a rideshare, designated driver, or public transportation.

· A couch is better than a hospital bed, or worse – sleep over instead of driving home.

· Delays can happen. Wait until you’ve reached your destination to use cannabis.

Getting around safely protects you, your passengers, and everyone else sharing the road. Be mindful – don't drive high!

A is for Aware

Pregnancy changes everything, including what’s safe to use. Holiday gatherings bring a mix of foods, drinks, and conversations. People who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid cannabis infused food and beverages. Pregnant people should also stay away from those who may expose them to secondhand smoke – yes, even weed smoke.

It’s not about judgment. It’s about awareness. Being aware means knowing when cannabis is not recommended and choosing to protect the health of both parent and baby.

R is for Responsible

Children are always active, and holiday parties make them even more energetic.

Whether you’re hosting or visiting:

· Lock up your cannabis, store cannabis up high and out of sight.

· Keep edibles sealed and locked away.

· Don’t leave infused treats on tables, counters, or on trays in the refrigerator.

A responsible parent, or host, keeps cannabis secured before the guests arrive. Good food, good vibes, and safe choices set the tone for a joyful gathering.

T is for Thoughtful

Teens already juggle enough: school, sports, goals, identity, friendships, mastering the latest TikTok dance, all of it.

Thoughtful teens understand they deserve a clear mind and a strong start as they work toward their dreams. Using cannabis before 21 can affect memory, motivation, and focus. Cannabis can wait.

S.M.A.R.T. Celebrations Start with All of Us

Whether you’re a host, a guest, a first-time weed shopper, someone who already knows their way around a dispensary, or can roll up with one hand, being S.M.A.R.T. helps everyone to relax and enjoy the season.

Be Safe. Be Mindful. Be Aware. Be Responsible. Be Thoughtful. Be S.M.A.R.T. this holiday season.

You may also like:

· Using Cannabis Safely

· The Effects of Cannabis on Children and Young Adults

· 5 Reasons to Wait to Bake

· Talking to Your Healthcare Provider About Medicinal Cannabis

· How to Read a Certificate of Analysis for Cannabis Products.pdf