The Budtender’s Ball: Celebrating New Jersey’s Cannabis Workforce

On a vibrant evening in North Bergen, New Jersey, Cannademix hosted their 2^nd annual Budtender’s Ball and New Jersey Cannabis Awards Show. This celebration gathered cannabis enthusiasts and professionals alike to honor the industry’s achievements and recognize outstanding contributions from various individuals and companies.

The Budtender’s Ball marked the fourth cannabis awards ceremony in New Jersey for the year 2024. According to Cannademix Founder Josh Alb, “It’s about our workforce. It’s about our industry. (And) It’s about celebrating a legal market that a lot of you in this room worked very diligently with me to try and build.” With a focus on honoring hard work and dedication, the event underscored the importance of the legal cannabis market in the state of New Jersey.

Budtender’s Ball Award Winners

In a night filled with recognition, Josh Alb served as the Master of Ceremonies, who noted that this year marked the five-year anniversary of Cannademix. Despite the absence of Commissioner Charles Barker, who was ill and unable to accept his award for commitment to social equity, the event continued with many deserving winners in various categories.

Budtender of the Year

The following budtenders were recognized for their exemplary service:

1. Connor Gregory – Hashery
2. Kaylee Manzano – City Leaf
3. Katie Ferlisi – Pure Blossom
4. Richard Juliano – Tree House Co-Op

Best Flower of New Jersey

The best strains were also honored at the event:

1. Fatso – Niche
2. Candy Fumes – Garden Greens
3. Cherry Slushee – Kind Tree with Nick D
4. Free Mac – Brighterside Farms

Dispensary of the Year

This award recognized the top dispensaries in New Jersey:

1. NJ Leaf
2. Hashery
3. Urb’n
4. Honey Grove

Cartridge/Disposable of the Year

The best cartridge and disposable products were selected as follows:

1. Jungle Punch – Timeless
2. Mandarin Orange – Fernway
3. Heir Headz – Onyx
4. Hibiscus Widow – Airo

Concentrate of the Year

Celebrated concentrates included:

1. Pink Gushers – Lily Extracts
2. Rainbow Beltz – MPX
3. Riptide Rush – Full Tilt Labs
4. Grape Junky – Onyx

Rookie of the Year