Tampa's 2006 Cigar Heritage Festival

Tampa's annual and free Cigar Heritage Festival is held during the month of November in historic Ybor City, the former cigar capital of the world. The 2006 festival occurred on November 18, which was a beautiful 70-degree Saturday without a cloud in the sky. Roughly 5,000 people attended the event, which began at 10AM and continued smokin' well beyond 5PM. It was a great day for Tampa, but a fantastic and historic day for cigars. A new world record for the longest cigar in the world was set by Wally Reyes of Gonzalez Habano Cigars in Tampa, bringing that honor back to the United States (from Cuba) with a cigar measuring 101 feet. Cigar Dave also conducted a live broadcast of his nationally syndicated cigar radio program, complete with a live orchestra and many of the personalities who frequent his show. Cigar companies showcased their merchandise, while live bands and other performers entertained the crowds. Cigar rollers demonstrated their craft, and a great time was had by all.