The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) was proud to participate in the 2026 Festival del Puro y el Café in Danlí, Honduras, an extraordinary celebration of craftsmanship, culture, heritage, and community that continues to solidify Honduras’ position as one of the world’s premier producers of premium cigars.
From the moment our delegation arrived, we were received with exceptional warmth, generosity, and hospitality by the festival organizers, the Honduran Ministry of Tourism, local officials, industry leaders, artisans, and the people of Danlí. The spirit of welcome extended throughout every aspect of the festival and reflected the pride Honduras holds for its tobacco heritage and cultural traditions.
The partnership between the PCA and Festival del Puro y el Café represents a shared commitment to supporting PCA members while advancing the growth, visibility, and preservation of the rich Honduran cigar industry and culture. Honduras has become a cornerstone of the premium cigar world, and initiatives such as this festival are instrumental in promoting the country’s exceptional craftsmanship, agricultural excellence, tourism, and entrepreneurial spirit on an international stage.
Day One provided attendees with an immersive journey into the heart of Honduran cigar production through factory and farm visits. Guests experienced firsthand the artistry, precision, and passion behind some of the finest cigars in the world, gaining a deeper appreciation for the people and traditions that define Honduran tobacco.
Day Two brought thousands of attendees — including Honduran nationals and international visitors — together for an unforgettable celebration at the festival expo. The atmosphere was filled with music, art, culture, and camaraderie, showcasing not only exceptional cigars, but also some of Honduras’ finest coffee, chocolate, gastronomy, handcrafted goods, and artistic talent. The festival beautifully captured the essence of Honduras: vibrant, welcoming, creative, and deeply rooted in tradition.
The PCA delegation was also honored to meet with Honduras’ Minister of Tourism, Andrés Ehrler Martínez, as well as Congressman Jorge Morazán, in meaningful conversations about the importance of cigar tourism, cultural promotion, and international collaboration in strengthening economic development and preserving heritage industries.
One of the most meaningful moments of the festival was the recognition presented to the PCA for our participation and continued support of the Honduran cigar community. We accept this honor with sincere gratitude and view it as a reflection of the growing relationship between our organizations and our shared dedication to the future of premium tobacco.
Special recognition must be given to Héctor Valladares, whose visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have helped transform this festival into one of the most vibrant and meaningful cigar events in the region. His pioneering vision, alongside the tremendous work of the organizing team, exhibitors, artisans, and participants, created an experience that was both authentic and world-class.
Festivals such as Festival del Puro y el Café are profoundly important to the PCA, to the organizers, and to the broader premium cigar industry because they create opportunities to preserve tradition, support local economies, celebrate artisanship, strengthen international relationships, and introduce new audiences to the culture surrounding premium cigars. More importantly, they remind us that premium cigars are not simply products; they are expressions of history, agriculture, family legacy, artistry, and national identity.
The PCA looks forward to continuing to strengthen and expand our partnership with Festival del Puro y el Café and with the Honduran cigar industry as a whole. Together, we remain committed to supporting our members, elevating premium tobacco traditions, and ensuring that the remarkable legacy of Honduran cigars continues to thrive for generations to come.
– Story by Ricardo Carioni, Director of International Affairs & Education at the Premium Cigar Association (PCA).