Highs, Lows, and Everything in Between: A Look Back at Cannabis and Vaping in 2024

• Posted on 2 January 2025
• By Flamingo Plus
• 0

We made it through another year of policies, puffs, and products we didn’t know we needed—and here we are, still standing (and hopefully vaping). If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that the cannabis and vaping industries are as unpredictable as ever, which is just part of their charm.

So, let’s take a moment to sip on a cannabis-infused tea, fire up that pineapple-mint vape, and reflect on a year that was equal parts groundbreaking and, occasionally, head-scratching. From bold political moves to innovations that made us rethink how we consume, 2024 brought the highs, the lows, and everything in between. It was a ride, to say the least—complete with epic wins, baffling debates, and plenty of new ways to enjoy our favorite plants and clouds.

This wasn’t just another year of trendy products or recycled ideas. No, 2024 was a year that felt like the cannabis and vaping industries had something to prove. They proved they could be smarter, greener, and more inclusive—while also proving that governments will always find a way to make things more complicated than necessary.

So buckle up (or light up). Let’s take a deep dive into the trends, triumphs, and trials that shaped the year, from political moves that made us cheer to vaping controversies that kept us on edge. Whether you’re here for the weed wisdom or just to see if your favorite vape flavor survived the year, this is your ultimate wrap-up of everything 2024 had to offer.

And if the past year was any indicator, 2025 is going to be just as unpredictable, but hey—that’s half the fun, isn’t it?

1. Microdosing: High, but Make It Minimal

Okay, let’s talk microdosing, because this trend completely took over 2024—and honestly, for good reason. Imagine this: you’ve had the longest day ever, your boss was extra, and all you want is to chill without going full “alien in a UFO” mode. Enter microdosing, the hero we didn’t know we needed.

Last year, edibles, drinks, and low-THC flower became the MVPs of the cannabis world. Suddenly, you could get just the right amount of high to feel amazing but still function. Need to unwind after work? Perfect. Want to show off your trivia knowledge without blanking out on the capital of Canada? Even better. (It’s Ottawa, by the way—don’t let microdosing steal that win for you.)

The best part? Microdosing made cannabis approachable for literally everyone. I’m talking about the coworker who still insists they’ve “never done weed” (they definitely have now) to the stressed-out office crowd just trying to survive another quarterly review. And let’s be honest, it’s a lifesaver for avoiding those 3 a.m. FaceTime calls where you ask your bestie if cats know they’re cats. (Spoiler: They don’t.)

2. Terpenes: Not Just for the Nerds Anymore

Terpenes, y’all. They’re like the secret sauce of cannabis, and in 2024, they went from being weed’s little-known sidekick to the main event. Picture this: you’re at a dispensary, and instead of just picking a strain because “it smells nice,” you’re suddenly asking for limonene or myrcene like you’re at a wine tasting.

Here’s the deal: terpenes are the aromatic compounds in cannabis that give it its smell, taste, and even its effects. Brands leaned hard into this last year, creating products that cater to every mood. Need a pick-me-up? Limonene’s your girl. Trying to unwind after a long week? Myrcene’s got your back. Feeling a little scatterbrained? Pinene will have you focused in no time.

Honestly, it’s wild how much the vibe around weed has shifted. It’s not just about “getting high” anymore; it’s an entire experience. Suddenly, we’re all cannabis sommeliers, pretending we know exactly what “terpene preservation” means as we pick the most “balanced” strain on the shelf.

3. Solventless Extracts: Fancy Schmancy Concentrates

Listen, I know concentrates have always been popular, but 2024 was the year solventless extracts like rosin really stepped into the spotlight. These babies are made with nothing but heat and pressure, no solvents or chemicals, so they’re basically the clean-eating version of cannabis. (Who knew we’d live to see the day?)

Sure, they’re pricey—like, “skip brunch for a month” pricey—but the flavor and quality are unmatched. When you dab rosin, you’re not just getting high; you’re having a culinary cannabis experience. And yeah, I know how extra that sounds, but trust me, one hit, and you’ll be waxing poetic about terpene profiles like it’s your job.

The real kicker? Solventless extracts aren’t just for snobs. They’re for anyone who cares about clean highs and rich flavors. And if you’re trying to flex a little at your next smoke sesh, pulling out some live rosin is a guaranteed way to impress.

4. Sustainability: Green Hits in Every Sense

Can we take a moment to appreciate how the vaping industry finally got its sustainability act together in 2024? Refillable devices, biodegradable packaging, and even take-back programs for old cartridges became the norm. It’s about time, right?

For anyone who’s ever felt that twinge of guilt tossing an empty pod, these changes are a huge win. But let’s be real—navigating the recycling process is still harder than explaining Bitcoin to your grandma. Like, where exactly are you supposed to drop off those used cartridges? And why does every vape store employee look at you like you’ve just asked them to solve world hunger?

Still, we’re moving in the right direction. And if it means keeping vape clouds a little more eco-friendly, I’m all for it. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about knowing your vape habit isn’t completely ruining the planet.

5. Cannabinoid Sidekicks Take the Stage

Okay, THC and CBD will always be the headliners, but 2024 was all about their supporting cast. Cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and THCV finally got their moment in the spotlight, and honestly, it’s about time.

CBG is great for inflammation (hello, post-gym recovery), CBN is the ultimate sleep aid (goodbye, tossing and turning), and THCV? Well, that’s the one everyone started calling “diet weed” because it helps suppress your appetite. Suddenly, cannabis products weren’t just about getting high; they were solving life’s little problems, one gummy at a time.

Brands took this trend and ran with it, creating everything from “Deep Sleep Gummies” to “Stress-Free Pre-Rolls.” It’s like cannabis decided to moonlight as a wellness guru, and I am not mad about it.

7. Manitoba Joins the Home-Grow Club

Let’s take a second to celebrate, because this is a big deal for us Manitobans. Starting in 2025, we’ll finally be allowed to grow our own cannabis at home. I mean, it’s about time, right? We’ve been watching other provinces like BC and Ontario live the dream while we’ve been stuck here begging friends to ship us seeds (totally not admitting to anything illegal, by the way).

Now, don’t get too excited—this isn’t a free-for-all. The government has laid out plenty of rules about “safety” and “security” because apparently, they think we’re all planning to grow fields of cannabis in our front yards and let the neighborhood kids run wild. Spoiler: We’re not.

Still, this move is a huge win. For anyone who’s ever wanted to grow their own plants, this is your chance to flex that green thumb. Whether it’s setting up a cozy little grow room in your basement or just planting a few beauties in the backyard (you know, discreetly), this is about more than just the plants. It’s about freedom, control, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re cultivating something amazing all on your own.

I don’t know about you, but I’m already picturing it: my tiny indoor jungle, thriving under LED lights, and me standing there like a proud parent on graduation day. Manitoba, welcome to the home-grow era. We’ve been waiting for this moment, and you better believe we’re going to make it count. Let’s grow!

8. Vape Flavour Ban: Manitoba’s Never-Ending Drama

Alright, Manitobans, let’s talk about the rollercoaster that was the vaping flavor ban debate in 2024. It’s been a whole thing, and if you’re like me, you probably spent half the year wondering whether your favorite mango-menthol or berry-burst vape was about to disappear forever. Spoiler: it didn’t. For now.

Here’s what went down: The government, in its infinite wisdom, flirted with the idea of banning flavored vape products under the guise of protecting public health—specifically targeting youth use. And listen, I get it, no one wants teens getting hooked on nicotine. But for those of us who turned to vaping as a way to quit smoking, those flavors are more than just fun—they’re essential. I mean, have you ever met someone who successfully quit smoking with a plain tobacco-flavored vape? Neither have I.

Thankfully, groups like Rights4Vapers rallied hard to push back against the proposed ban, arguing that it would do more harm than good. They pointed out that taking away flavors could drive vapers back to smoking actual cigarettes—hello, counterproductive much?—or force them to turn to sketchy black-market products. (And let’s be real, no one wants to risk their health with mystery juice bought off some random guy on Kijiji.)

By the end of 2024, we got some good news: the flavor ban is on hold, at least for now. Cue the collective sigh of relief from vapers everywhere. But here’s the catch—this fight is far from over. The government has made it clear that they’re still keeping the ban on the table, which means it could come back at any time, like that ex who keeps texting, “U up?” just when you think you’ve moved on.

For now, we can keep enjoying our fruity, minty, dessert-y favorites, but the uncertainty is exhausting. Every time I restock my watermelon-bubblegum vape pods, I can’t help but wonder, “Is this the last time?” It’s a weirdly dystopian vibe, like living in a world where your comfort items are perpetually at risk of being outlawed.

The kicker? There’s zero guarantee this will resolve anytime soon. The vaping community, especially here in Manitoba, has to stay vocal and keep the pressure on policymakers to prioritize harm reduction over reactionary bans. If we don’t, we could wake up one day to a very boring, flavorless world—and honestly, hasn’t life been bland enough lately?

So, let’s stay hopeful but ready to fight. Because if 2024 taught us anything, it’s that nothing is ever truly off the table when it comes to government decisions. Keep those blueberry-mango clouds going strong, Manitobans. We’re not done yet.

From Buds to Big Dreams: Why 2025 is Set to Be a Game-Changer

What a year 2024 turned out to be! From the excitement of microdosing taking center stage to Manitoba finally stepping into the spotlight with home cannabis cultivation, the past 12 months have been anything but boring. And if this year is any clue, 2025 is gearing up to be even bigger, brighter, and bolder for the cannabis and vaping worlds.

Think about it: more people exploring terpene-rich strains, cleaner and more sustainable vaping options, and an ever-growing lineup of cannabinoid innovations waiting to be discovered. Plus, here in Manitoba, we’re about to roll up our sleeves and start growing cannabis plants of our own—talk about an upgrade in how we connect with what we consume!

This isn’t just another year; it’s the start of something incredible. It’s a chance to explore new trends, try out products that are changing the game, and be part of a community that’s shaping the future of cannabis and vaping. Whether you’re here for the bold flavors, the best buds, or just looking for what’s next, 2025 is going to deliver.

At Flamingo Plus, we’re more than ready to help you dive into it all. From the latest products to the hottest trends, we’ve got you covered. Here’s to another year of growth, good vibes, and discovering your next favorite thing. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!