It’s tailgate time! Whether you’re gearing up for postseason baseball, the start of hockey season, or a good old-fashioned football game, cigars are a fantastic addition to any tailgate. Here, we’ll share a few tips for picking the best cigars for the occasion and teach you how to set up the perfect cigar bar for a tailgate party.

Step 1 Assemble the Essentials

Don’t assume your friends/family will have everything they need to enjoy a cigar at a tailgate. Instead, take some time and stock up on a few cigar accessories that everyone can use. This includes:

• Lighters (preferably butane lighters)

• Cutters

• Ashtrays

You can also invest in glasses that double as cigar stands if you want to really make a splash with your guests. 

Step 2 Create the Cigar Spread

Ask yourself: are the people attending my tailgate seasoned cigar lovers, or are they new to the cigar category? While you should have a few smokes you know you’ll enjoy, it never hurts to cater your cigar selection on gameday to your guests. Thankfully, these cigars will do the trick regardless of who’s coming to your party:

Best Tailgate Cigar for New Smokers — Macanudo Café

Creamy, approachable, and available in a litany of convenient sizes, Macanudo Café offers a flavor profile that every smoker can appreciate. Remember, there’s a reason why this cigar has become one of the most popular in the world. Pick up a few for your next tailgate if you’ve got some budding cigar enthusiasts in attendance. 

Backup: Don Diego

Best Tailgate Cigar for Experienced Smokers — Punch Signature

Bursting with spicy, cedary, and leathery tasting notes, Punch Signature delivers a kickass smoking experience perfect for seasoned tailgaters. Pair it with a Double IPA and a big kielbasa to elevate your next watch party!

Backup: Plasencia Alma Fuerte

Other Excellent Tailgate Cigars

Perdomo Lot 23 — Excellent quality and budget-friendly as well!

Southern Draw Jacob’s Ladder — Perfect for lovers of a full-bodied cigar.

Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur Minis — A classic cigar in an ideal size for cold-weather tailgates when you’re short on time. 

Step 3 — Don’t Forget the Pairings!

A great cigar is just part of the wider tailgate festivities! So be sure to offer your guests plenty of drink options (both alcoholic and soft drinks) as well as tailgate snacks for the game. This is particularly important since newcomers to the hobby may have difficulty enjoying a cigar on an empty stomach. 

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