In a groundbreaking move that blends culture, entertainment, and the blossoming cannabis industry, The Travel Agency—New York’s leading cannabis retail and community hub—has become the first-ever cannabis sponsor of the prestigious New York Film Festival (NYFF). This unprecedented partnership, aligning with the 62nd annual edition of the festival, marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of cannabis culture and cinema, underscoring a new era of collaboration between the arts and the evolving cannabis market.

They are presented by Film at Lincoln Center; this year’s festival features a star-studded lineup of global premieres, including works from critically acclaimed directors like Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door, Steve McQueen’s Blitz and RaMell Ross’s Nickel Boys. As part of this monumental event, The Travel Agency will also be the exclusive sponsor of the highly anticipated Cinephile Game Nights, an annual highlight of NYFF that returns for its third consecutive year. A night designed for film enthusiasts and trivia lovers alike, Cinephile Game Night promises an exciting blend of movie knowledge, interactive experiences, and community engagement, all with the unique addition of cannabis culture in the mix.

Pioneering Cannabis in Cinema Sponsorship

Founded on social equity and community empowerment principles, The Travel Agency is a BIPOC-led cannabis company that has become an integral part of New York’s cultural landscape. By sponsoring NYFF62 and Cinephile Game Nights, the company not only solidifies its role in mainstream cannabis acceptance but also pioneers the integration of cannabis into the high-profile cultural space of the film industry.

“This partnership isn’t just about sponsorship—it’s about breaking new ground in how cannabis can engage with culture, especially in a city like New York that thrives on artistic innovation,” said Srđa, Partnerships & Events Manager at The Travel Agency. “Our involvement with the New York Film Festival aligns perfectly with our mission to empower communities and reshape the narrative around cannabis, moving from stigmatization to celebration.”

The Travel Agency’s sponsorship of Cinephile Game Nights brings an elevated experience to the event, including a series of pre-festival game nights at their Union Square Lounge, where guests can enjoy an immersive trivia experience while engaging with premium cannabis brands. Partnering with Hudson Cannabis, Ayrloom, Silly Nice, and Rove, The Travel Agency will host a series of brand-focused game nights during the festival, creating a space where cinema and cannabis enthusiasts can connect.

A Cinematic Event Like No Other

The pre-festival events will kick off at The Travel Agency’s flagship lounge in Union Square on Wednesday, September 18, offering movie lovers and cannabis enthusiasts the chance to gather, mingle, and test their film knowledge. Additional game nights will take place on September 25, all featuring unique experiences set to delight cinephiles across New York.

The Cinephile Game Nights will then move to the iconic Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center’s Amphitheater during NYFF62. These events, held from September 28 through October 8, will spotlight cannabis brands like Silly Nice, Hudson Cannabis, Ayrloom, and Rove. Each night will focus on film trivia and offer guests a chance to learn about the featured brands, further merging the worlds of cinema and cannabis culture in a truly innovative way.

For movie buffs, Cinephile Game Night has become an iconic part of NYFF. The event features a wide range of trivia games, including fan favourites like “Six Degrees,” “Filmography,” and the ever-popular “Inglorious Basterd.” Hosted by Cinephile creator Cory Everett, with assistance from co-hosts Jordan Raup, Conor O’Donnell, and Dan Mecca, the event offers participants the chance to win exclusive NYFF62 tickets, specialty prize packages, and even prizes worth up to $500.

Shifting Narratives Around Cannabis

As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, partnerships like this one represent a significant shift in the narrative surrounding cannabis, particularly within major cultural events. Elizabeth Gardner, Vice President of Partnerships and Advertising at Film at Lincoln Center, echoed this sentiment:

“We’re thrilled to partner with The Travel Agency for the 62nd New York Film Festival. Cinephile Game Night has become a beloved part of the festival, and with The Travel Agency’s involvement, we’re able to create an even more dynamic and engaging experience for our audience. This collaboration highlights not just the evolving perception of cannabis, but also its role in fostering community and creativity.”

RSVP and Event Information

The Travel Agency’s pre-festival Cinephile Game Nights will be held at their Union Square Lounge (62 E 13th Street, New York, NY 10003) on September 18 and 25. The main event will occur at the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center’s Amphitheater (144 W 65th Street, New York, NY 10024) on September 28, 29, 30, and October 8. Doors open at 7:30 PM, and the game begins promptly at 8:00 PM. All attendees must be 21+, and seating is first-come, first-served.

Visit the official Film at Lincoln Center website here for more information on The Travel Agency’s role in NYFF62 and how to RSVP for upcoming Cinephile Game Night events.

Written by: Jason Smith

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