Throwing a party is not for the faint of heart. There’s a lot to clean, cook, and buy before guests arrive. And all of this prep work can cause you to overlook some of the party’s most important parts.
Music, entertainment, and the right goodies are crucial to the vibe. If you’re hanging with fellow cannabis enthusiasts — or even if you’re smoking ahead of time — you should put some thought into the type of weed you’re using.
The best strains for parties vary by user and social gathering. It’s worth taking the extra time to find the best weed for your guests.
5 Best Strains for Parties
In general, strains labeled “indica” will have calming effects, while sativa-dominant strains are often more energizing. However, these labels aren’t always consistent, and people may experience each strain’s effects differently.
The best way to plan your high is to keep track of your favorite strains. If you’re sharing with others, consider how each strain makes others feel. You can do this by looking up reviews, learning your dispensary’s most popular strains, or asking your friends for their preferences.
Check out some of the most popular strains for parties and social gatherings below.
1. Banana Runtz
Banana Runtz offers a fruity flavor and various effects. This hybrid is a cross between Banana OG and Runtz, both of which are popular, mood-lifting strains. This combination delivers a strong balance of effects that are perfect for a good time.
Banana Runtz has made users feel:
- Calm
- Relaxed
- Uplifted
- Giggly
- Aroused
- Happy
Banana Runtz is an excellent choice for small gatherings with friends. Plus, people may prefer its fruity flavor over other options that taste “weedy.” If Banana Runtz isn’t available, you generally can’t go wrong with most other Runtz strains.
2. Apollo XX
Apollo XX is one of the most popular sativa-hybrid strains due to its euphoric effects. It has relatively higher THC than other options. This strain is recognizable by the small, golden-white texture covering its otherwise green buds.
Apollo XX’s effects have helped users feel:
- Uplifted
- Euphoric
- Energized
- Happy
- Relaxed
- Creative
All in all, Apollo XX is a great strain for having fun and harnessing your social energy. Plus, its somewhat calming effects can make the event feel less overwhelming, whether you’re preparing for a concert or hosting a small gathering at home.
3. Wedding Cake
Wedding Cake balances the best of indica and sativa. Its relaxing effects can help you unwind while still keeping you energized. This strain is available in many forms, including flower and disposable vapes, depending on each dispensary’s supply.
Wedding Cake’s effects have made people feel:
- Happy
- Serene
- De-stressed
- Energized
This hybrid strain may not be ideal for large gatherings or anything that requires deep focus, but it can be perfect for games, dinners, and movie nights, especially after a long day.
4. Strawberry Gary
Strawberry Gary is a hybrid combination of Gary Payton and Red Pop genetics. This combo gives the strain a sweet, fruity flavor and a solid balance of effects. At over 30% THC, Strawberry Gary buds tend to have higher active cannabinoid levels than most other flower options.
This strain has made users feel:
- Calm
- Euphoric
- Giggly
- Energetic
- Creative
Like others on this list, Strawberry Gary helps users feel relaxed while still staying in the moment. That said, the strain’s flavor has a lot to do with its popularity. Guests who don’t like the taste of pot may find its creamy strawberry aroma more bearable than other strains.
5. Durban Poison
While most “sativa-dominant” strains are still technically hybrids, Durban Poison is often boasted as one of the few “pure sativas” available today. It’s nicknamed “caffeine in cannabis form” because of how well it wakes people up and puts them in the right mood.
Durban Poison has made users feel:
- Energized
- Focused
- Creative
- Inspired
- Euphoric
- Uplifted
This strain is ideal for productivity and creativity. If you’re planning a party with games, outdoor activities, or anything else that requires you to function, Durban Poison may be a great choice. That said, as a pure sativa, it may be overwhelming for guests who are still new to cannabis. Consider having hybrid backup options available, as well.
Choosing Party-Ready Strains
There’s a lot to consider when prepping weed for your party. First and foremost, consider your party’s theme and how active you and other attendees will need to be. For example, if you’re heading to a concert or planning to be on your feet, you’ll likely need energizing, sativa-dominant strains. If you’re hosting a chill movie night, try something with more calming effects — but not something that puts guests to sleep.
Every cannabis enthusiast has unique preferences. Some people prefer sativa-dominant strains for social gatherings, while others may feel uncomfortable using sativa under any circumstances. Consider offering a variety of options and letting people know what you have.
Unfortunately, not every strain is widely available. You may have to consider multiple additional factors before selecting your strain. These factors include:
- Dosage: Smoking an entire 1g pre-roll can be fun if you plan to crash on the couch at a movie night. However, you may want something smaller if you want to stay functional.
- Consumption methods: Every cannabis user likes to get high in different ways. If you plan on sharing your goodies, offer a few options, such as edibles, joints, and vapes.
- Availability: Every dispensary offers different products, and some strains are only available as flower, vapes, and edibles.
- Price: Many strains are more expensive than others due to popularity, potency, and other variables. These are often worth your while for social gatherings, but they may not be your best options if you’re stocking up.
Find High-Quality Weed Strains at JDM
Finding the best strains for parties can take some time, but it’s worth it to guarantee the best overall vibe. Fortunately, you don’t have to do all the work yourself. At JDM, our experienced budtenders can point you toward our most popular hybrid and sativa strains for social events.
Check out our online shop to explore hundreds of weed options.