The sun crested over the mountain peaks that littered the horizon as I entered the mile-high grounds of the Omni Interlock Hotel in Broomfield, Colorado. The unrelenting waves of the sun danced through the crystal blue waters of the pool as I lit my first smoke of the day. I sat back in a rocking chair as I took in the views, a sea of vendors and uniformed personnel in yellow shirts making their last preparations in anticipation of the waves of consumers anxiously awaiting entrance into the festival.
I slouched in a black, rustic rocking chair amidst a gigantic, lava-rock-laced fire pit and gazed upon the ever-forming crowd. In the distance, a DJ setting up the music stage could be heard performing his soundchecks. I toked my cigar and sipped my coffee, and I, too, became excited for the world that was about to unfold before me.
The massive lines were not here for a random gathering but for the 28th Rocky Mountain Cigar Festival (RMCF), an incredibly well-curated celebration of the premium tobacco industry. 121 vendors worldwide decorated the grounds with premium cigars, accessories, whiskies, rums, beer, and more. Sponsored by Smoker Friendly, this festival is home to some of the industry’s best deals and features several exclusives. Ticket prices ranged from a modest $80 to well over $500 for the EVIP pass, and those from all walks of life gained entry to this prestigious event.
I began to walk the grounds as the EVIP ticket holders gained entry. Before the event officially started, the grounds were filled with a lively ambiance as old friends connected, manufacturers engaged in conversations with their top fans, and early cigars were lit, encompassing the quintessence of cigar culture. Compared to events like PCA, where manufacturers sell to shops and lounges, RMCF caters to the everyday consumer, allowing those not connected to the industry to experience game-changing releases firsthand.
The vendors assembled under white awnings and set up their modest booths, offering sample packs, boxes, and apparel with almost impossible deals to pass up. Industry powerhouses like AJ Fernandez, Plasencia, Montecristo, and J.C. Newman came in full force, as did well-known super-premium brands such as Cavalier, Wildfire, Espinosa, El Septimo, and Foundation. For those not involved in the industry, RMCF is a fantastic opportunity to get Facetime with consumers’ favorite manufacturers and blenders.
My first stop of the day was the Cavalier booth, where Sebastien Decoppet and Brian Motola offered an event-exclusive ten-pack and a commemorative tacker featuring the artwork of the Domaine Rouge line and the transcribed date of the 2024 event. When asked how Decoppet felt about the event, he responded, “This is one of the best-run events I have consistently attended.”
New-to-the-scene brands such as El Mago also attended the event. Owner Nicolas Fusco passionately told the story of how he created the brand and debuted the Disco, their first 6×60 cigar, which will be available to the public on September 1st.
Also new to the scene is Sagrado, owned and operated by Coloradan and Marine Corps Veteran John Stewart. In addition to sample packs and discounted boxes, they debuted the Breathless, a Dominican cigar with a Habano wrapper and Sumatra binder, for a filler, “…A delicious Estelì Nicaraguan…” Brand Ambassador Natalie Simms designed the brilliant artwork that decorates the ornate box of the new line.
The festival also saw many craft spirits from Colorado and the rest of the United States offered samples in exchange for sample tickets that were provided with entry tickets. Colorado staples such as Deerhammer presented their entire line to the festival’s patrons and many other companies. New Jersey-based Penelope Bourbon debuted their Rosé bourbon, a crisp, fruity, yet still bourbon-tasting beverage to a scorching afternoon. Galliano, known for its various liqueurs, showcased its espresso liqueur, which can be enjoyed when chilled or is the perfect addition to your next espresso martini.
As the event raged, a light overcast engulfed the skies, shielding the crowds from the unrelenting Colorado sun. Coming from the moderate temperatures and low altitude from the Puget Sound, the mile-high city was taking a toll on me. If visiting from a lower altitude, it is imperative that one stays well-hydrated. This is made possible by many water-filling stations and bottles of water, electrolyte beverages, and other beverages offered free-of-charge to event-goers.
I found a respite under one of the many smoking tents, temporarily hiding from the intense heat. Metallic ashtrays from La Aurora decorated the many tables, and tablecloths and chairs were gently set upon them. Additional crowds began to amass as buses arrived at the venue, all carrying eager cigar smokers. I indulged in the meal provided with the ticket and chose to reflect on the day’s events.
With 28 years of experience, RMCF is run with extreme efficiency. Vendors are set up in an easily accessible manner, allowing patrons of any level to enjoy available sales and a chance to meet the faces behind their favorite brands. Consumers and manufacturers alike are enthusiastic about the opportunity to showcase the incredible community affiliated with cigar smoking worldwide.
Whether you are local or are just looking to attend a well-run event that has plenty of offerings, all accented by the incredible Rocky Mountains, RMCF is the event for you!
Erick Huertas
Erick Huertas is originally from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and was introduced to the social aspect of cigars during his schooling in San Antonio, Texas. Around this time, he also developed a growing interest in writing and photography, using his phone camera and notepad to capture the world around him.
Erick solidified his passion for photography and adventure when he completed the Trans-American Trail in the summer of 2021 with his Land Rover Discovery 3. Since his 2021 expedition, he has been interviewed on several podcasts and has written extensively about the open road.
In 2023, Erick became involved in Grassroots motorsports by covering local Rallycross through the Northwest Rally Association, local autocross, and other events. In late 2023, he debuted as a photographer in the American Rally Association and has since covered events with Pan American Superbike and Formula E.
When not traveling, Erick can be found on Whidbey Island, Washington. You can contact Erick via email at [email protected], on Instagram at @_ebhphoto, or on his website: www.erickhuertas.smugmug.com
