The Premium Cigar Association has wrapped up its 2026 trade show and convention, PCA26, after four days of business meetings, education sessions, and networking in New Orleans.
Held April 17 through April 20, the event brought together retailers, manufacturers, distributors, media, and industry professionals from across the premium cigar business. According to the PCA, this year’s show featured 262 exhibiting companies and welcomed nearly 2,540 retailers representing 970 retail accounts, with total attendance reaching more than 5,945 people.
The event opened with seminars, panel discussions, and interviews before the trade show floor officially opened. Programming included the debut of a new edition of Hand Rolled focused on the Padrón Cigars family, the presentation of the Best of the Leaf and Advocacy Awards, and a preview of author Nick Hammond’s upcoming book Around the World in 80 Cigars: The American Dream during a conversation with the J.C. Newman Cigar Co. family.
Other sessions included a hospitality program hosted by Florida International University alongside Rocky Patel Premium Cigars, as well as a fireside chat featuring Marlon Wayans and Guy Fieri with David Savona.
“We are continuing to grow the trade show into a multi-day experience focusing on a robust premium cigar footprint that will continue to expand thanks to the industry advocacy wins,” said Joshua Habursky, CEO of the PCA. “The energy on the show floor, the quality of business being done, and the enthusiasm from our members made it clear that this was one of the most impactful trade shows in recent history.”
The PCA said the event also drew attention from local media in New Orleans, highlighting both the economic impact of the show and the premium cigar industry’s presence in the city. Celebrity appearances from Chazz Palminteri and Martin Kove added to the event’s visibility.
Outside the convention floor, attendees gathered for evening receptions, after-hours events, and brand activations across the city, including events at local retailer Cuban Creations and The Warehouse.
“PCA26 was a tremendous example of what happens when our industry comes together with purpose,” said Todd Naifeh, President of the PCA. “Retailers came ready to buy, exhibitors came ready to innovate, and the result was a trade show that created real momentum for the year ahead.”
The organization also announced that PCA27 will take place next year in Las Vegas.
PCA26 By the Numbers
- 262 exhibiting companies
- 2,540 retailers in attendance
- 970 retail accounts represented
- 5,945 total attendees
- PCA27 announced for Las Vegas in 2027
Short Link: