130 Years of Craft: J.C. Newman’s Founder’s Day Is Back – With Sandwiches and Smoke

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to party with the oldest family-owned cigar company in the U.S., here’s your chance. J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is throwing open the doors to its iconic El Reloj factory for the 2nd annual Founder’s Day—and it’s shaping up to be a delicious, smoky celebration of Tampa’s deep cigar roots.

On Saturday, May 3rd, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the streets of Ybor City will buzz with the scent of slow-burning tobacco, sizzling Cuban sandwiches, and the cheers of competitive eating fans.

? Smoke, Sandwiches, and Some Serious Competition

The Cuban Sandwich Eating Challenge is back for round two, and it’s not for the faint of heart. Reigning champion Nick Wehry returns to defend his title against Miki Sudo, 10-time Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest queen and his partner in culinary crime (aka The Hungry Couple). Last year, Nick devoured 21 sandwiches in 8 minutes—can Miki flip the script this time?

Whether you’re into cigars, sandwiches, or just some good ol’ Florida sunshine, there’s something for everyone:

• Free factory tours of El Reloj – walk through the beating heart of American cigar history
• Cuban Sandwich Challenge showdown at high noon
• Lawn games, live music, and family-friendly fun (including science experiments from MOSI and the quirky chickens from Ybor Misfits Microsanctuary)
• A lineup of local food trucks: Bread on the Bay (for Cubans, of course), Los Chapos Tacos, Engine 53 Pizza, and Frios Gourmet Pops
• Nickel cigars – yes, you read that right. With any $20 purchase, score two classic Sanchez y Haya cigars for just five cents each.

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? Cigar Spotlight: Sanchez y Haya

As a nod to their rich Tampa heritage, J.C. Newman is putting the spotlight on their Sanchez y Haya line. Originally launched in 1886, it was one of Tampa’s first cigar brands and now lives on in a rich revival blend that honors that Cuban-inspired legacy.

• Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade
• Binder: Dominican
• Filler: Nicaraguan and Dominican
• Flavor Profile: Think creamy cedar, a touch of almond, and a whisper of spice. A perfect intro smoke for new enthusiasts but smooth enough to keep seasoned aficionados coming back.

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? Why You Don’t Want to Miss This

In a world of factory closures and mass production, J.C. Newman is keeping the craft alive. This is more than an anniversary—it’s a celebration of 130 years of family, tradition, and the enduring culture of the leaf. Whether you’re lighting up a Sanchez y Haya or cheering on the sandwich showdown, Founder’s Day is all about honoring legacy with flavor and flair.