Tampa is Getting Lit: Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest Hits Hard Rock Hotel

Cigar, Whiskey & Electric GuitarPhoto byAnthony TorresonUnsplash

Tampa's throwing a bash you won't wanna miss: Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest is rolling into the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel on April 6th, 2024.

Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest comes to Tampa's Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Saturday, April 6, 2024Photo by(@BIGSMOKEMEETSWHISKEYFEST / Instagram)

Whisky Advocate and Cigar Aficionado are teaming up to present Tampa with an evening of opulent indulgence. This Grand Tasting welcomes Tampa to pair 30 top-notch cigars with over 100 types of whiskey; from Scotch to bourbon to Japanese gems. It's a party for your taste buds.

Who's on Deck?

Big names like A.J. Fernandez, Alec Bradley, Arturo Fuente, and Rocky Patel are bringing their A-game in cigar crafting. Heavy hitters Bacardi, Bardstown Bourbon, and Uncle Nearest will be pouring the good stuff at the grand tasting. A pairing paradise!

Cigar enthusiasts and whiskey connoisseurs collide in a beautiful union of smoke and spirits. Past events have been the stuff of legends, drawing crowds from all over to indulge in the finest smokes and sips.

Last year, this Spring shindig went down on March 6th at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

Why Tampa?

Tampa's love affair with cigars isn't just a passing fling—it's a full-blown romance that's stood the test of time.

Back in 1886, when the rest of the world was still figuring out what to do with tobacco leaves, Tampa was already rolling out cigars like it was nobody's business.

Fast forward to today, the legacy still lingers in the very fabric of Tampa's streets. From historic Ybor City to the trendy corners of downtown, the spirit of cigar culture lives on, weaving its way into the city's identity.

Interior view of the Cuesta-Rey Cigar Company - Tampa, Florida. Lector in a large cigar factory: Tampa, Florida (1929)Photo byState Archives of Florida, Florida Memory

There's no better time to celebrate Tampa's rich cigar heritage than the present. This event isn't just about indulging in fine cigars and whiskey—it's about honoring the tradition, passion, and innovation that have shaped Tampa into the iconic "Cigar City" it is today.

The Lowdown on the Event:

Cigars can be enjoyed both in the ballroom and outside, so you can catch the Tampa sunset while puffing away. During the Grand Tasting, there's a scrumptious buffet with hot and cold dishes to keep you fueled up.

Why You Should Be There

It's not just about the cigars and whiskey (though let's be real, that's a big draw). It's about the vibe, the energy, and the camaraderie that comes with sharing a love for the finer things in life. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie looking to expand your palate, this event promises to be a "lit" affair.

Event Info:

• Where: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL
• When: Saturday, April 6th, 2024
• VIP Entrance: 5:30 PM
• Grand Tasting: 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• Tickets: Grab 'em online, General Admission for $345, VIP for $445.

Don't snooze on this. Tampa's first-ever Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest is where it's at—good drinks, good smokes, and good times.