Colorado become the first U.S. state to legalize recreational marijuana use starting January 1,2014

Colorado will become the first U.S. state to legalize recreational marijuana use starting January 1,2014

The historic move means weed stores across the state will open their doors to anyone over 21 with a valid ID

Colorado marijuana growing facilities and dispensaries prepare to open their doors on Jan. 1, 2014, for recreational marijuana users

In a move as historic as the end of alcohol prohibition eight decades earlier, the drug will be on sale to anyone over 21.

For the past decade, here and in 19 other states, ‘candy stores’ like Medicine Man have legally sold marijuana to those carrying a medical certificate.

But under the new law all that will be required is ID showing age and residence, for anyone living in state to buy 1oz to smoke, chew, eat, drink or drop under tongue with a pipette if they choose.

Those from out of state can buy half that quantity and must consume it before crossing state lines.

Amendment 64, the act legalizing recreational pot, was passed by 55% in November 2012

More Coloradans voted to legalize marijuana than voted for President Obama in November 2012 though Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper did not support it

Elan Nelson of Medicine Man holds a 'beautiful bud'

Elan Nelson of Medicine Man explains how marijuana plants at the facility are watered manually

Lara Herzog, right, and other Medicine Man employees manually trim marijuana plants at the growing facility and dispensary on Dec. 30 in Denver.