Editor's note: This article has been reviewed and updated for accuracy in 2026. As cities, states, and entire countries rushed to close up shop and quarantine as the novel Corona virus (COVID) swept the globe, many weed lovers were surprised that many dispensaries were able to stay open while other businesses like restaurants, gyms, and shopping centers were closed. Despite the tragedy of the mass death, high unemployment, and gloomy outlook sales of marijuana exploded. While cannabis isn't cheap, it seemed worth the cost to many, perhaps as a fun activity to do while locked up self-isolating or perhaps as a distraction to the depressing world outside. In the weed-loving state of Oregon marijuana sales soared 30% in March when lockdown first were implemented which equated to a whopping $84 million dollars in sales, according to OLCC, Oregon's Liquor Control Commission. Similar trends played out in Canada, where marijuana sales saw a successive increase in sales of 19% to the tune of $129 million USD. To find out more detailed accounts of how COVID has impacted the cannabis industry we interviewed business owner