Chicago's United Center will sell THC beverages at concessions in a U.S. arena first

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Chicago’s United Center is stepping into new territory for live events, becoming the first major U.S. arena to offer cannabis drinks at its concessions.

The arena — home of the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks — announced Tuesday a multi-year partnership with Rythm, a hemp-derived THC beverage company that makes Rythm- and Señorita-branded drinks, to sell the cans at concerts and live events.

The beverages will be available for adults 21 and older and sold alongside alcohol and soft drinks.

“We’re seeing consumers choose this at the liquor store, at venues, at restaurants, and so it’s a time when consumers are looking for alternatives,” said Ben Kovler, CEO of Green Thumb Industries, which owns a stake in Rythm.