Page 9 – The Fresh Toast

What’s Next for Cannabis in 2026

Terry Hacienda

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January 5, 2026

What’s next for cannabis in 2026 a look at federal policy, medical research, hemp drinks and state action.

The U.S. cannabis industry enters the new year at a crossroads, shaped by federal policy debates, state-level legislative reviews and growing public acceptance of marijuana as both a consumer product and a medical treatment. While sweeping legalization remains uneven, the year ahead could bring some of the most consequential changes the industry has seen in decades. So what’s next for cannabis in 2026.

At the center of the national conversation is whether marijuana will be rescheduled under federal law. Currently classified as a Schedule I substance — alongside heroin — cannabis is defined as having no accepted medical use. That designation has long conflicted with state medical programs and emerging scientific research.

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

Federal agencies are now formally reviewing whether marijuana should be moved to Schedule III, a change would acknowledge medical value and significantly alter how cannabis businesses are taxed and regulated. A rescheduling decision would not legalize marijuana nationwide, but it could ease restrictions on research, improve access to banking services and remove a major tax burden faced by licensed operators.

While momentum has grown, federal officials have not finalized a decision, making 2026 a critical year to watch for regulatory clarity.

marijuana leaf — Photo by Anton Petrus/Getty Images

Another major issue unfolding in 2026 involves hemp-derived THC beverages, which surged in popularity as alcohol alternatives. These drinks, often sold outside licensed cannabis dispensaries, exist in a gray area created by the 2018 Farm Bill.

New federal and state proposals aim to redefine what qualifies as legal hemp, potentially restricting or eliminating intoxicating hemp products altogether. Some states are moving to regulate hemp drinks like alcohol, while others are considering outright bans.

The outcome could reshape the beverage market, impact small hemp businesses and determine whether THC drinks remain widely available or move exclusively into regulated cannabis systems.

If federal rescheduling moves forward, it is expected to unlock greater medical research funding and streamline approval for clinical trials. For decades, cannabis research has lagged due to regulatory hurdles.

Medical professionals and researchers are increasingly studying cannabis for its potential benefits in treating or alleviating symptoms related to:

Chronic and neuropathic pain
Cancer-related nausea and appetite loss
Epilepsy and seizure disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Multiple sclerosis
Anxiety and sleep disorders
Inflammatory and autoimmune conditions

More funding could lead to standardized dosing, clearer safety guidelines and wider acceptance within mainstream medicine.

At the state level, cannabis remains a legislative priority in 2026. Several states are reviewing or carrying over bills related to legalization, medical expansion or criminal justice reform.

Among those under active consideration are Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, each weighing changes ranging from expanded medical access to reduced penalties for possession. While not all proposals are expected to pass, the continued debate reflects shifting public opinion and political pressure.

Taken together, 2026 could mark a turning point for cannabis in the United States. Federal rescheduling, tighter hemp regulation, increased medical research and renewed state legislative efforts suggest a slow but steady move toward normalization — even as legal contradictions persist.

For consumers, patients and policymakers alike, the year ahead will help determine whether cannabis continues its gradual integration into American medicine, commerce and culture — or remains caught between reform and restriction.

The Best Ways Cannabis Can Make the New Year Awesome

Sarah Johns

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January 2, 2026

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Explore the best ways cannabis can make the new year awesome for calm, fitness, pain relief, and healthier routines.

The New Year often arrives with a familiar mix of optimism and resolve. People vow to feel better, move more, sleep deeper, and manage stress with greater intention. Increasingly, cannabis is part of the conversation—not as a counterculture indulgence, but as a wellness tool embraced by adults seeking balance, moderation, and healthier alternatives. Here are the best ways cannabis can make the new year awesome.

Stress management remains a top priority each January, and cannabis is increasingly used to support mental well-being. Certain products are favored for their ability to promote relaxation and emotional balance rather than stimulation. When used responsibly, cannabis may help quiet racing thoughts, ease physical tension, and encourage moments of calm. Many people pair cannabis with mindfulness practices such as meditation, stretching, or journaling to reinforce healthier mental habits.

One of the fastest-growing trends in cannabis is microdosing. Rather than consuming enough to feel intoxicated, users take very small amounts designed to deliver subtle benefits. Advocates say microdosing can gently elevate mood, sharpen focus, and take the edge off anxiety without interfering with work or daily responsibilities. For many professionals, it offers a way to stay engaged and productive while still enjoying cannabis’s calming properties.

Another major lifestyle change gaining momentum is the movement away from alcohol and toward cannabis. As more adults reassess their relationship with drinking, cannabis is emerging as a gentler social and personal alternative. Unlike alcohol, cannabis does not dehydrate the body or disrupt sleep in the same way, and many users report waking up clearer and more refreshed. In social settings, low-dose cannabis can help people relax and connect without the downsides often associated with heavy drinking.

For medical cannabis patients, the New Year can bring renewed hope for managing chronic conditions. Cannabis is commonly used to help address ongoing pain, inflammation, nerve discomfort, and muscle spasms. By reducing pain levels, medical cannabis may enable better sleep, increased mobility, and improved quality of life. For many, it becomes a key component of maintaining daily function and overall wellness.

Cannabis is also finding a place in fitness and active lifestyles. Some individuals use small amounts before exercise to improve focus or deepen mind-body awareness, while others turn to cannabis after workouts to support relaxation and recovery. By helping ease muscle soreness or inflammation, cannabis may make it easier for people to stay consistent with movement—an essential factor in long-term fitness success.

As attitudes continue to evolve, cannabis is increasingly viewed through a lens of intention rather than excess. Used thoughtfully, it can support calm, recovery, and balance—qualities many people prioritize at the start of a new year. For those seeking healthier habits and sustainable change, cannabis may offer a modern tool for making the year ahead not just new, but genuinely better.

Can Cannabis Help With Anger

Anthony Washington

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January 2, 2026

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Can cannabis help with anger explore science stress relief and mindful use in todays tense world.

Right now, the national mood feels tense. Everyday living costs are stubbornly high, political turmoil dominates headlines, and many people feel society has shifted toward self-interest rather than the greater good. Add constant notifications, long commutes, and financial anxiety, and it’s no surprise anger feels closer to the surface than calm. It can play out in a variety of ways – from Congressman Chris Garten posting beating up Santa (R-IN) to spiking high blood pressure. In moments like these, people look for healthy ways to decompress—and for some adults, cannabis has entered the conversation as a possible tool to help cool hot emotions.

So, can cannabis help with anger? The short answer: it can help some people feel calmer, but how and why matters.

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

Anger is often a secondary emotion. Beneath it sit stress, fear, exhaustion, and a sense of lost control. When prices rise faster than paychecks, when political debates feel relentless, and when empathy seems in short supply, the nervous system stays in a constant state of alert. The “always on” stress response primes the body for irritability and short tempers.

Many adults are not looking to “escape” reality—they’re looking for relief, perspective, and a way to slow their racing thoughts. This is where cannabis, used thoughtfully, may help.

Rep Garten (R-IN) posted a pic of his beating up Santa Claus

Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in mood regulation, stress response, and emotional balance. Certain cannabinoids and terpenes are associated with relaxation and reduced stress, which can indirectly soften anger.

1. It can reduce stress, the fuel behind anger.
High stress often turns small annoyances into major blowups. Many people report cannabis helps lower baseline stress, making it easier to respond rather than react.
2. It encourages mental pause and perspective.
Anger thrives on speed—fast thoughts, fast judgments, fast words. Cannabis can slow the mental momentum, giving users space to reflect before reacting.
3. It may relax the body, not just the mind.
Tension in the shoulders, jaw, and chest often accompanies anger. Cannabis is known for its muscle-relaxing effects, which can help break the physical feedback loop keeping anger alive.
4. It can support better sleep.
Poor sleep and anger are closely linked. When people are exhausted, emotional regulation drops. For some adults, cannabis supports more restful sleep, which can translate into a calmer mood the next day.

Not all cannabis experiences are calming. High doses of THC, especially for inexperienced users, can increase anxiety or irritability. Many people seeking emotional balance gravitate toward lower-THC products or strains known for soothing terpene profiles such as myrcene or linalool.

Microdosing—using just enough to feel relaxed without feeling impaired—has become a popular approach for those looking to manage mood without losing clarity or motivation.

To be clear: cannabis doesn’t solve the root causes of anger. It won’t lower grocery prices or heal political divisions. What it can do is help some adults create a calmer internal state, making it easier to communicate, reflect, and respond thoughtfully rather than explosively.

Used responsibly, cannabis may support anger management by helping people slow down, soften their reactions, and reconnect with a sense of balance. In a time when tempers are running high nationwide, a pause—however small—can make a meaningful difference.

Can You Mix Alcohol And Marijuana On NYE

Anthony Washington

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December 30, 2025

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Can you mix alcohol and marijuana on NYE learn how to balance buzz vibes and next morning happiness

New Year’s Eve is built for indulgence. Champagne and wine flows, cocktails shimmer, and for many adults, cannabis has become part of the celebration. But when the clock is ticking toward midnight, a common question bubbles up right alongside the champagne: can you mix alcohol and marijuana on NYE — and if so, how do you do it smartly?

The short answer: yes, you can mix them — but how you do it matters more than ever.

Alcohol is a depressant which lowers inhibitions and speeds up decision-making. Cannabis, depending on the strain and dose, can either mellow you out or make sensations feel more intense. When combined, the effects don’t just stack — they amplify. That amplification can be delightful in small amounts… or uncomfortable if you overdo it.

This is why seasoned celebrators add an additional golden rule: microdose first, sip second. This goes with the old saying of “beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, you’re in the clear”.

If you plan to combine cannabis and alcohol on New Year’s Eve, microdosing is your best friend. Instead of a full edible or a heavy pour, think less than you normally would — of both.

Edibles: Start with 2–2.5 mg of THC, not 10 mg.
Flower or vape: One or two small puffs, then wait.
Beverages: Choose low-ABV cocktails, wine spritzers, or beer instead of hard liquor.

Give yourself at least 30–45 minutes before adding alcohol. Cannabis can increase alcohol absorption, meaning drinks may hit harder and faster than expected.

There’s an old saying among experienced users: “Grass before glass, you’re on your… class.” Jokes aside, consuming cannabis before alcohol often leads to a smoother, more controlled experience. Doing it the other way around can increase dizziness and nausea — especially once edibles kick in.

If you’ve already had a few drinks, it’s wise to skip cannabis entirely or keep it extremely light.

One of the biggest myths is annabis prevents hangovers. It doesn’t — but it can help you drink less, which absolutely does.

Smart strategies include:

Alternate every alcoholic drink with water or sparkling water
Eat before and during the evening (protein and healthy fats help)
Avoid sugary mixers late at night
Stop drinking at least an hour before midnight and switch to water or cannabis only

Many people find cannabis encourages slower sipping, fewer drinks, and an earlier, happier bedtime — all wins for January 1st.

New Year’s Eve is about celebration, not excess. A low-dose edible paired with a glass of champagne, or a cannabis beverage alongside a light cocktail, can elevate the night without derailing it.

The goal isn’t to get as altered as possible — it’s to feel good, stay social, remember the countdown, and wake up ready for the year ahead.

If you choose to mix cannabis and alcohol this New Year’s Eve, do it intentionally. Start low, go slow, hydrate often, and listen to your body. When done thoughtfully, cannabis and alcohol can coexist — creating a relaxed, joyful, and surprisingly hangover-light way to ring in the New Year.

The Latest On Medical Cannabis and ALS

Amy Hansen

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December 30, 2025

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The latest on medical cannabis and ALS explores symptoms, research, patient relief options, and emerging clinical insights

It has been in the news with actor Eric Dane struggling with the ALS. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, remains one of the most challenging neurological disorders confronting patients and clinicians today. Characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons—the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles—ALS leads to muscle weakness, loss of mobility, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and ultimately respiratory failure. There is currently no cure for ALS, and most individuals diagnosed with the condition live only three to five years after symptom onset. Treatments focus on slowing progression and managing symptoms to improve quality of life. But what is the latest on medical cannabis and ALS.

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

Patients with ALS may first notice subtle symptoms such as muscle twitching, weakness in a limb, or slurred speech, which gradually evolve into more severe impairments affecting daily living. As the disease progresses, individuals often struggle with activities like walking, speaking, eating, and breathing. While cognitive function is usually preserved, some people experience changes in emotional expression and mood. There is a strong emphasis in clinical care on coordinated support—spanning physical therapy, respiratory assistance, nutritional counseling, and psychosocial support—to address complex patient needs.

Amid ongoing research into traditional pharmaceuticals and genetic therapies, interest has grown in the potential role of medical cannabis as a complementary approach for symptom management in ALS. Cannabinoids—the active compounds in cannabis such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating pain, muscle tone, appetite, and mood. Preclinical studies in animal models suggest cannabinoids might exert antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects could slow the degeneration of motor neurons, though more rigorous clinical trials in humans are needed.

In patient surveys and early clinical observations, people with ALS have reported medical cannabis helps relieve several symptoms commonly associated with the disease. These include pain, poor appetite, anxiety, muscle cramps, spasticity, and drooling. Some users also report improvements in sleep quality and overall well-being. However, it’s important to note the definitive evidence of long-term benefits or effects on disease progression in humans is still limited, and outcomes can vary widely between individuals. A recent retrospective study found short-term symptom relief for pain and anxiety with medical marijuana use but also observed a correlation with faster functional decline, underscoring the complexity of interpreting these findings and the need for controlled clinical research.

Ongoing trials—such as placebo-controlled studies evaluating cannabis-based extracts for slowing disease progression—aim to clarify whether cannabinoids have a measurable impact on ALS beyond symptom relief. As researchers continue to explore both conventional and alternative therapies, patients and clinicians alike emphasize individualized care plans weigh potential benefits, side effects, and legal considerations related to medical cannabis. For authoritative research news, advances in clinical trials, and emerging treatment strategies beyond cannabis, consider the ALS Association and academic neurology publications as additional resources.

Medical cannabis is not a cure for ALS, but for some patients it may offer meaningful relief of specific symptoms when used under medical supervision. The landscape of ALS treatment is evolving, and continued research will help clarify where cannabis may fit within broader therapeutic strategies for this devastating disease.

What Does the Public Think About Rescheduling Cannabis

Anthony Washington

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December 29, 2025

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What does the public think about rescheduling cannabis in a post-prohibition era driven by data, not stigma.

What does the public think about rescheduling cannabis? Long before federal officials formally moved to reschedule cannabis, they had already made up their mind. According to a widely cited poll from Pew Research Center, 88% of Americans supported legal cannabis in some form—either for medical use, adult use, or both—prior to the rescheduling announcement. The overwhelming consensus set the stage for what many see as a long-overdue policy shift catching up with reality.

Post-rescheduling polling shows public opinion has only grown more confident, particularly around cannabis’s medical potential. A December 2025 survey from YouGov found more than three-quarters of U.S. adults believe cannabis has legitimate medical uses, while just a small minority disagreed. Notably, the poll also showed broad approval for rescheduling specifically because it allows expanded medical research—an issue which resonates across party lines.

Another YouGov medical-focused poll reinforces the point. Large majorities said cannabis should be studied and made available as a treatment option, especially where conventional therapies fall short. This is not abstract support; it reflects lived experience. Veterans coping with PTSD consistently report medical cannabis can help manage anxiety, nightmares, and sleep disruption when traditional medications fail or cause harsh side effects. For many, rescheduling represents validation rather than experimentation.

Patients with cancer, IBS, and chronic pain echo similar sentiments. Poll respondents frequently cite cannabis’s ability to ease nausea from chemotherapy, stimulate appetite, reduce inflammation, and improve sleep quality. Sleep, in particular, stands out as a near-universal concern—one where many Americans say cannabis has helped them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

The impact extends beyond people. Everyday pet owners increasingly report using CBD products to calm anxious dogs during fireworks, ease joint pain in aging pets, and improve overall quality of life. While veterinarians urge careful dosing and further study, public acceptance of pet-focused CBD mirrors the broader shift toward viewing cannabis as a wellness tool rather than a cultural wedge issue.

Taken together, these polls paint a clear picture. Americans are not debating whether cannabis belongs in modern medicine—they are asking how best to regulate, research, and responsibly use it. Rescheduling did not change public opinion; it aligned federal policy with a public already convinced cannabis can help real people, and even their pets, live better lives.

Marijuana Can Help You Feel Refreshed

Sarah Johns

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December 26, 2025

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How marijuana can help feel refreshed and energetic at the end of the holidays, easing stress and helping recovery from seasonal burnout.

By the time the holidays wind down, many Americans are running on empty. The nonstop socializing, travel, shopping, and disrupted routines can leave people mentally foggy and physically worn out. While the exhaustion is nearly universal, it often shows up differently by age group. Gen Z frequently reports elevated stress, anxiety, and burnout from financial pressure and social expectations, while older adults tend to feel physically drained after weeks of hosting, traveling, and juggling family obligations. But with a week + left of activities, marijuana can help you feel refreshed.

Contrary to outdated stereotypes, cannabis is not only about sedation or couch-locking effects. When used intentionally, certain strains and products are associated with clarity, motivation, and a lighter mental state—qualities many crave after the holidays.

For Gen Z, stress is often the dominant issue. Surveys consistently show younger adults reporting high levels of anxiety tied to finances, work uncertainty, and social pressure amplified by constant online comparison. For this group, cannabis is often used as a tool to decompress and quiet racing thoughts. Lower-THC products, balanced THC-CBD options, and terpene-forward strains are frequently chosen for their ability to ease tension without overwhelming the mind. When stress levels drop, energy often returns naturally.

Older adults, on the other hand, tend to describe the post-holiday slump as physical fatigue rather than mental overload. Late nights, rich foods, long drives, and packed schedules can leave the body feeling stiff and depleted. Many older consumers gravitate toward cannabis varieties associated with gentle stimulation and body comfort. By easing aches, supporting relaxation, and improving sleep quality, marijuana can help the body recover—making mornings feel lighter and days more manageable.

Terpenes play an important role in this experience. Compounds such as limonene and pinene are often linked to uplifting, clear-headed effects, while others like caryophyllene may help take the edge off physical discomfort. When people feel less tense and better rested, energy follows.

Importantly, moderation matters. The goal is not escape, but restoration. Microdosing—using small, controlled amounts—has become especially popular among professionals and older consumers who want subtle benefits without impairment. This approach aligns well with New Year intentions focused on balance, wellness, and productivity.

As the holiday season fades, marijuana is increasingly viewed not as a party indulgence, but as part of a thoughtful reset. For stressed Gen Zers seeking calm and clarity, and for worn-down older adults looking to recharge their bodies, cannabis may offer a way to step into the new year feeling refreshed, focused, and energized—rather than exhausted.

Feds Reveal Medical Cannabis Is Very Popular With The Disabled

Amy Hansen

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December 26, 2025

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Feds reveal medical cannabis is very popular with the disabled, according to a new federal study examining pain relief, access and policy implications.

In a move displaying the practical use of marijuana, the feds reveal medical cannabis is very popular with the disabled for a sound reason. A newly released federal study finds Americans living with disabilities are increasingly using cannabis to manage pain, stress and other chronic symptoms, underscoring a growing gap between patient behavior and federal drug policy.

The research, published in the Disability and Health Journal and funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, draws on data from nearly 2,000 adults who self-identify as having a disability. About 22 percent of respondents reported current cannabis use, a rate notably higher than estimates for the general adult population.

Pain relief was the most frequently cited reason for use. More than 70 percent of participants said they use cannabis to manage pain, while roughly 60 percent reported using it to relax or reduce tension. Others cited relief from migraines, nausea, muscle spasms, sleep disturbances, seizures and mental health symptoms. Participants represented a wide range of disability types, including mobility, cognitive, vision, hearing, self-care and independent living limitations.

Researchers note the data is self-reported and not nationally representative, with respondents skewing toward white, female and college-educated individuals. Still, the authors concluded cannabis use is prevalent across disability categories and warrants greater attention from public-health officials and policymakers.

The findings arrive as the administration weighs whether to follow through on plans to reschedule cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act. Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance, a category reserved for drugs with no accepted medical use, despite growing evidence and widespread patient use. Moving cannabis to Schedule III would formally acknowledge its medical value and reduce barriers to research.

For patients with disabilities, rescheduling is not an abstract policy issue. Federal classification affects everything from clinical research and physician guidance to affordability and access. Because cannabis remains federally restricted, doctors often lack clear guidelines, large-scale clinical trials remain limited, and insurance coverage is nonexistent. Patients are left navigating a patchwork of state rules while managing complex health needs.

Advocates say the study highlights how policy has lagged behind reality. Millions of Americans with chronic conditions are already using cannabis as part of their care, often after conventional treatments failed or caused severe side effects. Many report turning to cannabis to reduce reliance on opioids, muscle relaxants and sleep medications, which can carry significant risks with long-term use.

Public-health experts warn continued delay has consequences. Without expanded research and standardized medical guidance, patients rely on trial and error rather than evidence-based care. For people with disabilities, who frequently manage multiple conditions at once, the uncertainty can be particularly harmful.

Rescheduling would not legalize cannabis nationwide, but it would ease research restrictions, encourage clinical studies focused on disability-related conditions, and provide clearer guardrails for physicians and patients alike. Supporters argue it would move cannabis use out of the shadows and into a more accountable medical framework.

As federal officials debate next steps, the study adds urgency to the discussion. For people living with daily pain and functional limitations, cannabis is not about recreation. It is about relief. The question now is whether federal policy will catch up with the patients already depending on it.

Festivus Grew From A Quirky Holiday To A Meaningful Celebration

Anthony Washington

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December 23, 2025

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Festivus grew from a quirky holiday to a meaningful celebration for people who want humor honesty and less holiday pressure.

Every December, amid the glitter of Christmas trees and the glow of menorahs, a quieter—but far more opinionated—holiday makes its annual return. Festivus, often dubbed “a holiday for the rest of us,” has evolved from a sitcom joke into a genuine cultural tradition celebrated by millions who crave humor, honesty, and a break from seasonal perfection. Who would guess how Festivus grew from a quirky holiday to a meaningful celebration.

Festivus first entered the public consciousness in 1997 through the iconic TV series Seinfeld. In the episode “The Strike,”viewers learned Festivus was created decades earlier by the father of George Costanza as an alternative to the commercial pressures and emotional expectations of traditional holidays. Its symbols were refreshingly minimal: a plain aluminum pole instead of a tree, a Festivus dinner, the “Airing of Grievances,” and the climactic “Feats of Strength.”

What began as satire struck a nerve. Audiences instantly recognized the underlying truth: the holidays can be stressful, expensive, and emotionally loaded. Festivus offered something radical—permission to opt out.

In the years since the episode aired, Festivus has grown steadily in popularity. Office parties, family dinners, bars, and even corporate Slack channels now mark December 23 as a day for candor and comedy. Social media has amplified its reach, with aluminum poles proudly displayed and grievances humorously aired in posts and memes.

Part of Festivus’ appeal lies in its flexibility. There are no religious requirements, no gifts required (or even encouraged), and no pressure to perform cheer. It’s anti-commercial, anti-pretentious, and proudly self-aware—qualities resonating deeply in a hyper-curated world.

Festivus has strong multigenerational appeal. Gen Xers and older Millennials who grew up watching Seinfeld enjoy the nostalgia and irony. Younger Millennials and Gen Z, meanwhile, embrace Festivus as a countercultural statement—a holiday which values authenticity over aesthetics and humor over obligation.

It also resonates with people who feel excluded or overwhelmed by traditional celebrations. Singles, blended families, introverts, skeptics, and anyone burned out on forced merriment often find Festivus refreshingly inclusive. You don’t have to believe in anything—except maybe telling the truth with a smile.

Beneath the jokes and grievances, Festivus carries a few surprisingly timeless lessons. First, it reminds us the celebration doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate to be meaningful. A simple meal and honest conversation can be enough.

Second, Festivus encourages emotional transparency. The “Airing of Grievances,” while exaggerated for comedy, reflects a real human need to be heard. When practiced with kindness and humor, it can foster connection rather than conflict.

Finally, Festivus teaches us traditions are allowed to evolve. You can honor the season in ways which suit your values, your energy level, and your sense of humor. Celebrating doesn’t have to mean conforming—it can mean choosing joy on your own terms.

In a season often defined by excess and expectation, the magic behind Festivus lies in its simplicity. It’s a reminder sometimes the best holiday gift is permission to be real—and maybe to wrestle a loved one before dessert.

Has Cannabis Claimed Its First Alcohol Victim

Anthony Washington

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December 22, 2025

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Has cannabis claimed its first alcohol victim? Jim Beam’s production pause may reveal shifting drinking trends.

Cannabis has surged in popularity across the United States in recent years, cutting across age groups from older medicinal users to younger adults who increasingly embrace it for recreational and wellness purposes. As cultural attitudes shift and legal access expands — now with major moves at the federal level to reschedule cannabis — traditional alcohol consumption patterns are visibly changing too. Emerging data show younger generations, especially Generation Z, are drinking far less than their predecessors, opting instead for alternatives like cannabis or choosing moderation for health and lifestyle reasons. Drinking rates among adults under 35 have steadily declined over the past two decades, underscoring a generational shift away from habitual alcohol use. And the question is has cannabis claimed its first alcohol victim?

At the federal level, the United States is on the brink of historic change in how it views and regulates cannabis. The current administration has taken formal steps toward rescheduling marijuana, acknowledging its accepted medical uses and easing long-standing federal restrictions. While rescheduling does not equate to full legalization, it would reduce regulatory barriers, expand medical research opportunities, and significantly alter the financial and operational landscape for the legal cannabis industry. These moves reflect a broader cultural shift in which cannabis is increasingly normalized, while alcohol faces mounting competition for consumer attention and dollars.

Those changing preferences are now rippling through the alcohol industry. A striking example emerged with the announcement Jim Beam will pause production at its flagship distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, beginning in 2026. The move was made by parent company Suntory Global Spirits as part of a strategic adjustment to address slowing demand and an oversupply of aging bourbon barrels. While bottling, warehousing, and visitor operations will continue, a full production pause at one of the most iconic bourbon sites in the world is an unusually strong signal the industry is recalibrating.

Multiple pressures are converging at once. Kentucky warehouses are holding record levels of bourbon, domestic spirits consumption has softened, and international sales have been hit hard by tariffs which have significantly damaged export markets. Canada, historically one of the most important destinations for American whiskey, has been particularly affected, with higher costs and retaliatory trade measures sharply reducing demand. Together, these forces have made it harder for even legacy brands to justify uninterrupted production.

To fully grasp the significance, it helps to revisit the history of Jim Beam itself. Founded in 1795 when Jacob Beam sold his first barrels of whiskey in Kentucky, the brand is one of the oldest continuously produced bourbons in the world. Jim Beam survived Prohibition, rebuilt under James Beauregard “Jim” Beam in the 1930s, and went on to become a global symbol of American whiskey.

At the height of its popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Jim Beam was ubiquitous — a staple on back bars, a fixture at family gatherings, and a cultural shorthand for bourbon itself. While the brand remains strong, the current pause suggests a changing landscape where tradition alone is no longer enough. Whether cannabis has claimed its first true alcohol casualty remains up for debate, but the shift in American consumption habits is no longer theoretical — it is playing out in real time, barrel by barrel.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

What’s Next for Cannabis in 2026

What’s next for cannabis in 2026 a look at federal policy, medical research, hemp drinks and state action.

The Best Ways Cannabis Can Make the New Year Awesome

Explore the best ways cannabis can make the new year awesome for calm, fitness, pain relief, and healthier routines.

Can Cannabis Help With Anger

Can cannabis help with anger explore science stress relief and mindful use in todays tense world.

Can You Mix Alcohol And Marijuana On NYE

Can you mix alcohol and marijuana on NYE learn how to balance buzz vibes and next morning happiness

The Latest On Medical Cannabis and ALS

The latest on medical cannabis and ALS explores symptoms, research, patient relief options, and emerging clinical insights

What Does the Public Think About Rescheduling Cannabis

What does the public think about rescheduling cannabis in a post-prohibition era driven by data, not stigma.

Marijuana Can Help You Feel Refreshed

How marijuana can help feel refreshed and energetic at the end of the holidays, easing stress and helping recovery from seasonal burnout.

Feds Reveal Medical Cannabis Is Very Popular With The Disabled

Feds reveal medical cannabis is very popular with the disabled, according to a new federal study examining pain relief, access and policy implications.

Festivus Grew From A Quirky Holiday To A Meaningful Celebration

Festivus grew from a quirky holiday to a meaningful celebration for people who want humor honesty and less holiday pressure.

Has Cannabis Claimed Its First Alcohol Victim

Has cannabis claimed its first alcohol victim? Jim Beam’s production pause may reveal shifting drinking trends.

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