“The 26th Habano Festival will not be held this year,” writes Habanos S.A., announcing a program of festivities for Cohiba’s 60th anniversary. First step: the launch of the Cohiba Talismán as a regular production cigar in London next October.

“The Organizing Committee of the Habano Festival announces that, after evaluating the current situation and with the purpose of preserving the standards of excellence that distinguish this renowned international event, the 26th Habano Festival will not be held this year,” wrote Habanos S.A. in a message sent to distributors on Monday, July 20.

Following days of rumors and uncertainty, Habanos had previously announced on February 14 the “postponement” of the event—originally scheduled for February 23–27, 2026—due largely to the energy crisis Cuba is currently facing.

“The Organizing Committee will continue to monitor the evolution of the context with the aim of holding a future edition when conditions allow the Festival to be offered with the excellence, scope, and quality that have made it an international benchmark,” the Havana-based group added.

“This decision, however, does not affect the extensive program planned to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Cohiba,” the Organizing Committee continued, noting that “celebrations will continue to unfold over the coming months with important news and exclusive events.”

“The first major milestone of this program will take place on October 7th in London, with the worldwide presentation of Cohiba Talismán,” Habanos announced. The Cohiba Talismán (154 mm x 54) was originally released as a 2017 Limited Edition. The group did not state whether it would be the exact same cigar but clarified that the new Talismán would join the brand’s standard portfolio within its Línea Clásica (Classic Line).

“This launch will mark the beginning of an international agenda that will include new experiences and surprises for Habano enthusiasts,” the statement added.