The historic first day of sales of recreational marijuana in Illinois kicked off Wednesday morning with the expected long lines and party atmosphere as hundreds celebrated their ability to buy weed legally -- all while helping the state out with 10 to 25% of the cost going toward taxes.

Lines formed early at dispensaries in Chicago and the suburbs with customers aware of concerns that the shops could sell out of product early.

Several buyers expressed surprise at just how much cash they had to pay out but were happy that they knew the quality of the cannabis was good — and for once in their life they weren’t breaking the law.

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Ally Marotti and Robert McCoppin ~ ChicagoTribune.com ~