The cigar world received disappointing news this month: Habanos S.A. has officially cancelled the 26th Habano Festival, the industry’s most anticipated annual event in Havana. Originally scheduled for February 23–27, the festival was first postponed in mid-February as Cuba’s energy crisis deepened, and has now been called off entirely — only the third cancellation in the event’s history.
The organizing committee cited a commitment to preserving the festival’s standards of excellence, stating it will return once conditions in Cuba allow for the experience the event is known for.
There’s a silver lining for enthusiasts, though: the celebrations marking Cohiba’s 60th anniversary will move forward regardless. The first milestone lands on October 7th in London, with the global unveiling of the new Cohiba Talismán — so the year isn’t without its highlights for Habano lovers.
What do you think — does the festival’s absence change how you’ll follow Habano news this year? Let us know in the comments.