Cannabis culture continues to grow across the United States, and MLB fans reflect that shift. Stadium rules remain strict at most ballparks, yet many supporters of the game show growing comfort with legal cannabis, personal use, and brand partnerships tied to baseball.
National trends shape fan attitudes
Public opinion on marijuana has changed dramatically over the past decade. Gallup’s 2023 report shows 70% of U.S. adults support legal cannabis, which marks the highest level ever recorded. Pew Research Center reported during 2024 that 57% of Americans favor legal medical and recreational cannabis, with only a small group firmly opposed.
Pew’s data also shows that most Americans now live within reach of at least one dispensary, which places legal cannabis retailers squarely inside everyday life for many MLB markets. Exposure through storefronts, advertising, digital channels, and local culture helps normalize cannabis for a large share of baseball followers.
Cannabis use among MLB fans
Sports polling offers a useful snapshot of behavior among baseball supporters. A Morning Consult study cited by Marijuana Moment reported that about 20% of MLB fans consume marijuana and 17% use CBD. That puts baseball at a moderate level among major sports audiences.
Another study focused on drug consumption at sports events across the United States and the United Kingdom. Findings showed that roughly 23% of American fans used drugs—including cannabis—during the previous year at or around sporting events. Despite ballpark restrictions, some fans still find discreet ways to consume before or during games.
Growing support for cannabis sponsorships
A 2025 poll from Performance Research and Full Circle Research—covered by Sports Business Journal and Marijuana Moment—revealed a major shift toward acceptance of cannabis advertising within sports culture. A majority of surveyed fans viewed cannabis sponsorships as completely or mostly acceptable.
Among MLB supporters, more than half expressed comfort with CBD brands partnering with teams. Many respondents also supported THC partnerships where state rules allow it. This marks a clear departure from the old era, where cannabis branding near professional sports faced steep resistance.
Today, many fans show openness toward outfield signage, digital campaigns, pre-game promotions, and wellness-focused product education—provided messaging remains responsible.
Remaining concerns among supporters
Acceptance does not equal unanimous approval. Pew’s 2025 national review of marijuana attitudes shows lingering public concerns. Only 21% of adults believe legalization improves public safety, and many remain uncertain about long-term effects.
These concerns likely mirror feelings among MLB fans. Many welcome legal cannabis yet still prefer smoke-free stadiums, discreet consumption before games, and thoughtful regulation near family sections.
The takeaway for MLB culture
Current data points to a clear conclusion:
- Cannabis culture holds strong support among MLB followers, supported by nationwide legalization trends.
- Roughly one out of five MLB fans uses cannabis, based on established polling.
- Most fans show comfort with cannabis-related sponsorships, especially those centered on CBD wellness.
MLB policy will likely evolve toward this growing acceptance. For now, one thing stands out: cannabis no longer sits on the fringe of baseball culture. Many fans already view it as a normal part of modern sports life.