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COPYRIGHT 2026 BY NEWS 8 NOW/NEWS 8000. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
WINONA, Minn. (WKBT) — The Winona Dispensary cut the ribbon Thursday on the city’s first recreational marijuana retail location, marking the end of a two-year wait for legal cannabis sales in the community.
The grand opening comes nearly two years after Minnesota legalized recreational marijuana use for adults in 2023. However, the state didn’t begin licensing dispensaries until early 2025, creating a lengthy gap between legalization and retail availability.
“We’re this focal point in the community for people to turn to to make sure they get the proper dosage, the proper handling,” said owner Alexander Denning. “It’s a huge responsibility but we’re so excited.”
The dispensary’s opening represents a significant milestone for Winona residents who have been waiting for legal access to recreational marijuana products. Since legalization, adults 21 and older have been able to possess and use marijuana, but purchasing options were limited without licensed retailers.
Denning says the dispensary looks to expand its offerings to include marijuana for medicinal purposes in the future.
COPYRIGHT 2026 BY NEWS 8 NOW/NEWS 8000. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
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