There are a number of major cigar festivals in the USA every year, both national and local. These events bring together the most respected minds in tobacco and are paramount to the industry. Thousands of aficionados also attend these events, which makes them an ideal place for networking and meeting like-minded people. It’s also a chance to learn about industry trends and get an idea of what releases are coming down the pipeline. Among the most important events in the industry are:
- The Texas Cigar Fest. Located in Houston, this event is a great opportunity for aficionados in the Houston area to meet, mingle and talk tobacco. Everyone who attends gets a sizable gift bag that includes a couple dozen premium sticks manufactured by AJ Fernandez, Nat Sherman, Torano, Altadis, Perdomo, Gran Habano, Room 101 and Rocky Patel, among other respected brands. The event also includes delicious food and drinks, along with entertainment.
- The Big Smoke. The Big Smoke is considered by many to be the most important among the major cigar festivals in the USA. Though its location changes every year, it is always found in the nation’s most active cities, like New York or Las Vegas. The event brings in iconic figures in the industry and attendees will have a chance to speak to many of them. Industry leaders will also host many seminars to help shed light on the state of tobacco and what aficionados should expect in the future. Those in attendance will be able to sample a large selection of premium spirits and enjoy food from local restaurants. Everyone who attends the event will walk out with more than 20 stogies produced by the industry’s most respected brands.
- The Great Smoke. Every year in February, The Smoke Inn hosts this event in West Palm Beach, Florida. Like other major cigar festivals in the USA, The Great Smoke brings in dozens of important industry figures that speak to attendees and show off some of their newer releases. Attendees can also expect food, drink and entertainment. The Great Smoke only lasts for four hours, but it also features live music and even massages given by certified masseuses. The event donates a portion of all proceeds to charity, which usually comes out to around $30,000 or more.
- The Midwest Smoke Out. Hosted at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, The Midwest Smoke Out is the only large tobacco event in the Midwest. Attendees will be able to try a huge variety of sticks, spirits and food. Unlike other tobacco events, The Midwest Smoke Out also focuses on cars and motorcycles, for aficionados who are also passionate about show vehicles.
These are just a few large tobacco events that aficionados should keep an eye on every year. They are the best opportunities for enthusiasts to express their love for tobacco and its community.
