New York Opens Its Farmers' Markets to Small-Scale Cannabis Producers

On August 6, 2026, the governor Kathy Hochul signed a law expanding the opportunities available to cannabis microbusinesses during the Cannabis Showcase Events, temporary events that may take place, for example, in farmers' markets or public procurement.

The text, identified under the following references S.10113/A.11217, changes the conditions for these small businesses to participate. Until now, their presence at such events had been limited in practice. The new legislation now allows them to participate fully as growers, processors, and retailers, within the scope of the authorizations provided for in their licenses.

For New York City officials, one of the main goals is to make it easier for small businesses to reach consumers. These businesses often have more limited marketing resources and distribution networks than their more established competitors.

«This new law offers micro-businesses and licensed dispensaries a real opportunity to succeed in New York’s legal cannabis market,» Kathy Hochul said when announcing the measure.

Events that are always strictly supervised

However, the opening of farmers’ markets does not mean that the usual rules disappear. The Cannabis Showcase Events remain subject to a specific regulatory framework established by the’Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).

In particular, events must obtain written approval from local authorities and be the subject of a prior application to the OCM. Admission is restricted to individuals 21 years of age or older, and minimum distances must be maintained from schools, places of worship, and certain facilities that serve young people.

Organizers must also put safety measures and incident reporting procedures in place.

Another important restriction: on-site consumption, free samples, and promotional giveaways of cannabis products are prohibited. Sales to the public are handled exclusively by the retailer holding the event license. Growers and processors may showcase their products but may not sell them directly to visitors at the event.

An event may last up to 14 consecutive days, while a single venue may host this type of event for no more than 45 days per calendar year.

A new channel in an already significant market

The reform comes as the New York's legal cannabis market has grown significantly. To mark the fifth anniversary of the legalization of adult use, the state reported in March that it had surpassed the $3.3 billion in cumulative sales and had more than 600 accredited clinics.

However, this growth does not guarantee the viability of small businesses. For a microbusiness, producing cannabis and successfully bringing it to market remain two distinct challenges, particularly in an industry facing high costs, competition, and regulatory constraints.

Farmers' markets, therefore, primarily offer a new point of contact with the public. They can enable small brands to showcase their products, gain visibility, and build a customer base outside the traditional network of retail outlets.