J.C. Newman Cigar Co. has announced the release of the 2026 José Gaspar cigar, continuing a long-standing tradition that connects Tampa’s historic cigar industry with the city’s iconic Gasparilla celebration.
Tampa has been recognized as “Cigar City” since the late 19th century, while the annual Gasparilla festival—rooted in pirate lore dating back more than a century—has become one of the region’s most recognizable cultural events. Each year, J.C. Newman brings those two traditions together with a limited José Gaspar release crafted specifically to commemorate the season.
The 2026 José Gaspar is a 6 x 54 cigar wrapped in an Ecuador Havana wrapper and handcrafted by J.C. Newman, a four-generation family-owned company celebrating more than 130 years in the cigar business. Known for its bold profile, the cigar is positioned as a celebratory, full-flavored offering aligned with the spirit and pageantry of Gasparilla.
For the 2026 release, production is limited to 10,000 cigars, sold in five-count packs with an MSRP of $40. Distribution is intentionally localized, with José Gaspar cigars available exclusively at select retailers and venues throughout Tampa, Florida, reinforcing the cigar’s strong connection to place and tradition.
The cigar’s namesake, José Gaspar, is a legendary pirate figure long associated with Tampa Bay folklore and the Gasparilla festivities. According to the company, the cigar is meant to reflect both the bold character attributed to Gaspar and the enduring heritage of Tampa’s cigar-making community.
Availability of the 2026 José Gaspar cigar is seasonal. Once Gasparilla festivities conclude, the cigar will no longer be available and is expected to return only with the next annual release.