Nicaragua’s flagship cigar-industry event, the Puro Sabor Nicaraguan Cigar Festival (now in its 13th edition), is captivating enthusiasts and international visitors with an immersive program of factory tours, tobacco farm visits, tastings, pairings, and gala celebrations. The festival runs January 18–24, 2026, with the core cigar-focused activities centered in Estelí, the undisputed capital of Nicaragua’s premium cigar industry.
Attendees have already enjoyed welcomes in Managua, a trip to colonial Granada (including islet boat tours on Lake Cocibolca and cultural heritage walks), and today’s guided explorations of Granada’s historic sites and chocolate factories. On January 21, the group heads north to Estelí for the heart of the experience: lunch at a partner tobacco farm in San Isidro, followed by a special cigar-and-coffee pairing and tasting at AJ Fernández’s farm and an official Estelí welcome dinner.
Over the following days (January 22–23), participants will tour farms and factories belonging to major producers such as AJ Fernández, Plasencia, Victor Calvo, Drew Estate, Joya de Nicaragua, My Father, Padrón, and others. Highlights include hands-on factory visits, tobacco field tours, midday lunches with industry leaders, afternoon tastings, the festive White Party celebrating Nicaraguan culture and cuisine, and a grand closing gala on January 23. Transfers back to Managua’s airport are arranged for January 24.
The festival is organized by the Nicaraguan Chamber of Tobacco and draws retailers, aficionados, and media from North America, Europe, and Latin America. It offers an all-inclusive experience—accommodations, meals and drinks (Sunday–Friday), transfers, group insurance, welcome gifts, and unlimited cigars and beverages during events—providing exclusive behind-the-scenes access that highlights why Nicaraguan cigars consistently rank among the world’s best.
Estelí remains the epicenter of Nicaragua’s cigar boom, home to dozens of factories producing hundreds of millions of premium hand-rolled cigars annually for global export. Puro Sabor gives visitors rare insight into every step—from seed to finished product—while fostering networking and celebration of the country’s tobacco heritage.
The event is ongoing now, with the most anticipated Estelí factory and farm tours beginning imminently. For those interested in future editions, registration typically opens in the preceding summer via the official website. This week-long celebration underscores Nicaragua’s position as a leader in premium cigars and continues to strengthen international appreciation for the craftsmanship born in Estelí.
