The “420” weed parties planned for Khao San Road on Thursday were cancelled and are expected to be postponed until after the general election, after critics pointed out that smoking marijuana in public places is still illegal.

A local group of vendors had planned to organise the Cannabis Day Showcase on Thursday along with a parade.

But the event was deemed inappropriate as it focussed on recreational use — not medicinal purposes for which cannabis was decriminalised.

Khaosan 420, the event organiser, cancelled the event and will reschedule it for June 9, the first anniversary of the plant’s removal from the narcotics list.

While cannabis is no longer restricted, a law that sets out what uses are permitted failed to pass in the last House session. In the absence of legal clarity, recreational use has boomed.

But smoking in public is still an offence under the Public Health Act, with jail of up to one month and/or a fine up to 2,000 baht.

April 20 is considered a symbolic day among pot enthusiasts as the number “420” has become linked with weed culture.