The 2025 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show floor opens on April 12, but Friday, April 11, was the opening day for the convention portion. At the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, things kicked off with a preview of Hand Rolled: Julio R. Eiroa, followed by a welcome from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.
This is my fifteenth PCA Trade Show, and I’ve noticed that the atmosphere leading up to the event often influences its overall success. This year, there were challenges beyond PCA’s control, such as the AJ Fernandez fire and the tariffs being implemented by the U.S. While these issues were discussed among attendees, they didn’t overshadow the positive mood at the show.
In 2023, I remember a lukewarm reaction when Executive Director Scott Pearce announced the PCA Trade Show would return to New Orleans for the first time. That appears to be a distant memory. On top of that, I spoke to several attendees who actually came into New Orleans a few days early to enjoy what New Orleans had to offer/
Much was made about the crowds in town this weekend for the French Quarter Festival. Yes, it was more crowded, but it didn’t seem more crowded than a busy summer day in Vegas. Attendance at the PCA convention was pretty much a rounding error compared to that of the French Quarter Festival. One thing is for sure: New Orleans can handle big festivals. I actually think the vibe of the French Quarter festival helped make visiting New Orleans more experiential.
This year’s Hand Rolled docuseries installment was Hand Rolled: Julio R. Eiroa. This is the fourth time a Hand Rolled documentary has been previewed. As the name indicates, this installment tells the story of legendary grower and cigar maker, Julio R. Eiroa. Julio is the father of Christian and Justo Eiroa, who are also featured in the movie. It was priceless seeing Christian and Justo enjoying the premiere in the audience. In addition, industry names such as Nestor Plasencia, John Oliva, Carlito Fuente, and Pete Johnson are featured in the movie. In each instance, a Hand Rolled premiere has happened, it has been widely received, and this year was no exception.
Attendees got to enjoy an Aladino Corojo Robusto by JRE Tobacco Co..There was pretty much a full house at the premiere. Like in previous years, the Hand Rolled premiere contributed to a great vibe.
The premiere was only a portion of the Hand Rolled documentary. A final release date has not been set as a distribution agreement for the movie is still pending.
After the premiere, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry addressed attendees. It’s the first time a Governor and the highest-ranked state official spoke at a PCA/IPCPR/RTDA convention. The Governor seemed genuinely enthusiastic about being at the PCA Convention as he lit up a Fuente Fuente Opus X. Landry also mentioned Louisiana’s rich history with tobacco growing and cigar making. While there were a few moments of political interjection, overall it was a good speech.
“Cigars create beautiful thoughts and great memories,” commented Governor Landry during his speech.
Following Governor Landry’s address, there was the Next Generation of Makers Panel, the Premium Cigar Association Annual Meeting, and a Fireside Chat with Guy Fieri. The day concluded at Heritage Park with an opening party that was deemed a success, and it happily did not include nachos on the menu. Overall, the event was well-received.
This day, the Cigar Coop Coalition presented Joshua Habursky its 2024 Person of the Year Award.
This opening day was critical to the PCA. From the day New Orleans was announced, many knew the microscope would be on the PCA. This turned out to be a very good day for the PCA, so things are off to an excellent start.Tomorrow, the Trade Show floor opens!
Photo Credits: Cigar Coop
