The Ultimate Guide to Bong Pong Tournaments

Why Bong Pong Tournaments Are on the Rise

Bong Pong tournaments are no longer just a novelty–they are rapidly becoming the go‑to competitive vibe for cannabis‑friendly gatherings. Originating as a clever twist on the classic beer pong format, Bong Pong replaces plastic cups with bongs equipped for hits. When a ball lands in the catch cup attached to a bong, the opposing player removes the green cup and takes a rip instead of a drink.

This shift is especially timely: as more socially conscious adults choose cannabis over alcohol, Bong Pong fills a space for competition without the calories, drunks, or hangovers. The Bong Pong tournament scene is taking off fast, with organizers drawing local crowds and even offering prize money. The format works because it is simple to learn, easy to team up, and it brings stoners together in a social space that no other cannabis game does. 

This year in Providence, High Society Rhode Island launched a tournament series that turned casual Bong Pong into full-on events, complete with elimination brackets, BBQ plates, and cash prizes. Now people are starting to anticipate the next round more than they do many traditional bar games.

How To Set Up Your Own Tournament

If you are thinking about running your own Bong Pong event, the basics are surprisingly straightforward–but a few thoughtful details elevate the experience:

1. Choose Your Format

Start by pairing players into teams of two and building out a bracket based on how many show up. A single-elimination format works great for 4 to 8 teams, but if you’re working with fewer players, go with a round-robin so everyone gets plenty of playtime. The key is keeping matches moving and everyone involved.

2. Set Up the Space

Depending on the head count, you’ll want at least one or two Bong Pong sets ready to go. You can grab one here. Each setup should have six bongs per side, placed on a table. Pre-pack all bowls before the tournament starts—trust us, it keeps the pace tight and prevents long delays between rounds. Nothing kills momentum like a mid-game packing break. 

3. Add Stakes and Atmosphere

The right vibe makes a huge difference. In Providence, High Society RI gave out $500 and custom swag to the champs—but you don’t need a fat prize pool to make it feel legit. Offer gift cards, trophies, or even just bragging rights. Add a BBQ station or mocktail bar nearby so players stay energized, hydrated, and entertained between games.

4. (Optional) Promote and Scale

If you're aiming for more than just a casual hang, spread the word. Print flyers for local dispensaries, post on forums, and document the highlights on social. Photos, brackets, and team shoutouts help build anticipation for your next round and might even attract sponsors down the line.

Inside Bri Duffy’s High Society Showdown

Bri Duffy, co-founder of High Society Rhode Island, organized the first tournament featuring a full‑day elimination bracket, live DJing, BBQ plates, and a $500 prize for the winning team .

Duffy told Motif that she “Saw it online, and immediately started looking into it,” she said She mapped out structure, recruited sponsors like Aura of Rhode Island and Ocean State Curated Cannabis.

The event gathered 16 teams of two players each, battling through bracket matches over one afternoon, while food and a bar fueled the vibe. Duffy even teased plans for a final championship across all events and home version kits for players to continue the play at home High Society RI. That first tournament delivered both proof of concept and culturally relevant energy—peer competition, cannabis culture, and local involvement all rolled into one.

High Society’s tournament model blends competition and cannabis culture with careful execution: timed rounds, and thoughtful pacing so players stay sharp over multiple matches. She even packed bowls with different strains, keeping players on their toes. Between rounds, they promote sponsors, charities, and local vendors—the result is a party and competition wrapped into one. If you’re in New England, check out some of their upcoming events.

You’ve Got the Blueprint. Now Light It Up

Bri Duffy and her team have shown that a well‑executed Bong Pong tournament can draw competitive spirit, cannabis enthusiasts, and local eyes all at once. Now the recipe is out: pick a venue or place, gather a few sets, set entry fees or prizes, and nail the flow.

• Pick a date and venue with legal clearance or private space

• Build a bracket system, track winners and side brackets

• Raise hype with promo graphics, social media, or even themed team names

• Stock water, cocktails, snacks, and food for players

• Structure matches to keep delays minimal and energy high

Bong Pong tournaments don't need to aim for high stakes to succeed. Keep the vibe casual if you want, lean into cannabis culture respectfully, and the hype will come. Hosts can layer in style with team jerseys, branded swag, or themed tournament nights.

Whether you're starting small with a backyard bracket or dreaming bigger for an event series like High Society's, the base formula is the same: community, structure, cannabis etiquette, and energy. Now it’s your turn to take that spark and build a tournament people show up for—and talk about long after it’s over.