The cannabis event landscape is experiencing a revolution, and it’s being led by two visionaries who are redefining what community gathering looks like in the industry. Fame Neal and Rachele Sanchez, founders of the EXHALE Day Party & Wellness Tour, have created something unprecedented: a national movement that puts LGBTQ+ inclusion, mental wellness, and social justice at the center of cannabis culture.
What started as an intimate underground gathering in Philadelphia three years ago has evolved into a touring phenomenon that challenges every assumption about cannabis events. While the industry has long been dominated by hyper-masculine branding and traditional party atmospheres, EXHALE takes a deliberately different approach, one that prioritizes healing, education, and authentic community building over the typical cannabis event formula.
EXHALE Co-Founders Fame Neal and Rachele Sanchez at EXHALE Philly 2024Building Community Through Strategic Partnerships
The EXHALE team’s approach to partnerships reveals their commitment to authentic community impact. Current sponsors including Ayrloom, Web Infusions, SASS, CannaTown, and OUTSmart NYC aren’t just financial backers, they’re collaborators in creating transformative experiences. In Philadelphia, their ongoing partnership with Puff & Pose brings monthly yoga sessions that incorporate intentional cannabis use, while their NYC collaboration with CannaPitch NYC specifically spotlights BIPOC and LGBTQ cannabis startups seeking investment and mentorship opportunities.
This strategic approach extends to their programming choices. At the upcoming EXHALE NYC event, Weed Auntie will lead “Reflection,” a mindful meditation and journaling session sponsored by SASS, while showcasing her recently launched Hemp Jumpsuit line. Meanwhile, Reading for Black Lives will distribute free books to attendees, reinforcing the tour’s commitment to education and social consciousness alongside cannabis advocacy.
The Bronx event on June 28, 2025, will feature an expanded roster of wellness activities that demonstrate EXHALE’s holistic approach: sage bundling workshops with Quintessential Therapy, “Writing for Survival” guided journaling sessions presented by BLAQ Reunited, mindful movement sessions with Flora Healing Body Works (sponsored by Mello Tymes), self-guided paint therapy, and free seedling giveaways. These offerings reflect a sophisticated understanding that cannabis wellness extends far beyond consumption into creativity, spirituality, and personal growth.
Guest Host, Queen Yaszy at EXHALE Philly 2024Creating Safe Spaces for Marginalized Communities
EXHALE’s commitment to inclusivity goes beyond programming to address fundamental safety concerns. Their collaboration with OUTSmart NYC provides safety advocacy services at events, ensuring attendees can participate without fear of harassment or discrimination. This partnership represents a proactive approach to community protection that’s often overlooked in cannabis event planning.
“The EXHALE Tour is committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces for all individuals, especially for those in the LGBTQ+ community,” the organizers explain. “Cannabis has long been a tool for healing, and through EXHALE, we aim to provide that healing in a way that destigmatizes plant medicine in communities of color.”
EXHALE Philly 2024 guest gets paintedExpanding Impact Through Social Justice
The tour’s vision extends beyond cannabis advocacy into broader social justice work. In response to harmful immigration policies, the team is actively seeking to support organizations providing resources to immigrant communities, demonstrating that their understanding of cannabis advocacy includes interconnected human rights concerns. This holistic approach to activism acknowledges that the communities most affected by cannabis criminalization often face multiple forms of systemic oppression.
The organizers emphasize that “EXHALE is not just about cannabis; it’s about people—connecting, healing, and growing together through shared experiences.” This philosophy drives their commitment to prioritizing Black, BIPOC, Latinx, women, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in their vendor and educator selections, creating genuine economic opportunities alongside social connection.
EXHALE Philly 2024 guests line-dancingA New Model for Cannabis Culture
With expansion plans including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C., the EXHALE Tour represents more than just a series of events—it’s a blueprint for how cannabis culture can center marginalized voices while creating meaningful community impact. For New Yorkers interested in experiencing this innovative approach to cannabis community, EXHALE NYC takes place June 28, 2025, in the Bronx. Visit www.exhalesocial.com for tickets and updates, or contact the organizers about sponsorship opportunities to support this groundbreaking movement that’s proving cannabis culture can be both joyful and justice-oriented.
