LYNNWOOD — A new chapter in Lynnwood’s economic and community landscape begins this week as Starbuds Cannabis Co. becomes the first retail cannabis store to open following the City’s decision to lift its longstanding ban on cannabis retail.
Located along the highly active 196th Street corridor—alongside nationally recognized brands like Starbucks and Wingstop—Starbuds represents a shift in how regulated cannabis businesses are integrated into everyday commercial spaces.
To mark the occasion, Starbuds will host a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on April 20 at 12:00 PM—intentionally aligning with the nationally recognized “4/20” date, while using the moment to highlight community investment and the role local businesses can play in strengthening the community—featuring Lynnwood Mayor George Hurst, local leaders, and community partners.
As part of the celebration, Starbuds will present financial contributions to local nonprofit organizations—demonstrating an immediate commitment to reinvesting in the Lynnwood community.
“These organizations represent the heart of what makes Lynnwood strong,” said Derek Anderson, owner of Starbuds Cannabis Co. “They are doing important work every day, and this is just one of the ways we’re showing up as a community partner from day one.”
The opening follows Lynnwood’s recent policy shift to allow cannabis retail after years of prohibition, a decision shaped through public input, local leadership, and a focus on responsible integration.
“This has been years in the making,” said George Hurst, Mayor of Lynnwood. “I had the opportunity to be part of this conversation while serving on the City Council, and now, just over my first 100 days as Mayor, it’s rewarding to see that work come to life. This reflects a thoughtful, community-driven process, and we look forward to welcoming Starbuds as the first of these businesses to open in Lynnwood.”
“This moment reflects what can happen when local government, small business, and the community work together through a transparent and thoughtful process,” Anderson added. “We see this as an opportunity not just to operate a business, but to contribute meaningfully to Lynnwood’s future.”
Starbuds’ placement in a traditional commercial corridor with reduced zoning buffers highlights the continued normalization of regulated cannabis within mainstream commerce—bringing with it job creation, tax revenue, and opportunities for local reinvestment.
As one of the most recent cities to lift a longstanding cannabis retail ban, Lynnwood’s approach may serve as a model for other jurisdictions navigating similar policy decisions.
ABOUT STARBUDS
Starbuds Cannabis Co. is a licensed cannabis retailer focused on providing high-quality products, knowledgeable service, and a welcoming retail experience. With a strong emphasis on compliance, education, and community engagement, Starbuds is committed to being a responsible and active member of the communities it serves.
RIBBON-CUTTING EVENT DETAILS
What: Starbuds Lynnwood Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
When: April 20, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Where: 4028 196th St SW Ste 104, Lynnwood, WA, 98036
Source: Starbuds
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
