The 26th Festival del Habano, Cuba’s flagship cigar event, is set to take place in Havana from 23 to 27 February 2026, against the backdrop of heightened international interest marking the 60th anniversary of Cohiba, the country’s most recognisable cigar brand.

According to L’Amateur de Cigar, tickets for this year’s festival were sold out months ago through Habanos S.A.’s exclusive distribution network, with no general public sale planned. This is likely driven by higher demand linked to Cohiba’s anniversary.

A provisional programme published by Cigar Inspector outlines a week of traditional plantation and factory visits, seminars, tastings, evening events and the gala dinner. While Cohiba’s anniversary is expected to be a central theme, organisers are also planning tributes to the H. Upmann and Trinidad brands. Three major evening events are scheduled, during which new product releases are anticipated.

There has been online speculation about whether wider economic pressures facing Cuba could have an impact on the festival. Some folk have pointed to concerns over energy supplies, including the potential disruption of Venezuelan oil imports following political instability in Caracas. However, organisers have given no indication that the event or its programme will be affected – as yet.

Rumours are also swirling about which Cohiba cigars might be unveiled during the week. Speculation includes the possible return of the 59-ring gauge cigar, reportedly under the working title Atabey, or the debut of a 60-ring gauge vitola, the Excelentes limited edition, to mark the anniversary. Habanos S.A. has yet to confirm any details.

In addition, it seems like other brand milestones may be acknowledged at this year’s festival, including the 30th anniversaries of Cuaba and Vegueros, as well as the 90th anniversary of Flor de Rafael González Márquez.

With weeks to go, anticipation continues to build for one of the most closely watched editions of the Festival del Habano in recent years.

If you have any news or gossip associated with this years event, do spill the beans! 😄