Some events scream “That’s So Tampa” just from their title alone, and perhaps nothing is more of a Tampanian party than J.C. Newman’s Founder’s Day celebration at the iconic El Reloj cigar factory in Ybor City. The mega-sized bash is an annual favorite this year’s party is the biggest one yet, with tons of free and family-friendly activities, plus great food, drink, and of course, cigars.
The free Founder’s Day party takes place on Saturday, May 3, from 11 am – 3 pm in and around the historic factory, located at 2701 N 16th St. Free parking is available at all of JC Newman’s properties in the El Reloj District. They will be marked with event parking signs and their security team will be guiding visitors to available lots.
With such a big celebration on hand, here are our top 5 reasons we can’t wait for the J.C. Newman Founder’s Day party (in no particular order!)
1. Free cigar factory tours and museum entry
The J.C. Newman Cigar Factory, also known as El Reloj Cigar Factory, is the oldest operating cigar factory in the United States, dating back to 1910. Family-owned, it is a wonderful treat to get a peek inside the factory, as guests can journey inside the beautiful building and step into Tampa’s iconic history as a cigar city. The tour also includes access to the incredible cigar factory museum. Plus, it’s free!
2. Family-friendly fun
We love a party that’s fun for all ages, and this family-friendly block party checks all the boxes, from energetic kids to cigar-loving adults. Guests will be able to enjoy live music, lawn games, and even take part in MOSI Children’s science experiments. Plus, you can meet the misfits of Ybor Misfits. And again, it’s all free for guests.
3. Cuban Sandwich Eating Challenge
The main event for the Founder’s Day celebration is the annual Cuban Sandwich Eating Challenge – again, what could be more Tampa than this? Not only is it fantastic entertainment, but it also features 10-time Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest Champion Miki Sudo and last year’s Cuban Sandwich Eating Challenge reigning champion Nick Wehry; they’re also known as The Hungry Couple. Like so much else at this community celebration, attendance for the challenge is completely free.
4. Five-cent Sanchez y Haya cigars
One of our favorite parts of the annual celebration is that the historic cigar factory recreates the first cigar rolled in Tampa all the way back in 1886, the Sanchez y Haya cigar. Plus, you’re also paying throwback prices: the Sanchez y Haya cigars are only 5 cents each, if you purchase $20 or more from the store (limit two per customer). You can literally taste the history.
5. Authentic Cuban sandwiches and food trucks
What’s any good festival without something to eat? The Founder’s Day celebration has an elite lineup of food stands and food trucks, with some of the area’s biggest stars coming to the factory to help celebrate. Featured vendors include Bread on the Bay Cuban Sandwiches, Los Chapos Tacos, Engine 53 pizzas, and Frios gourmet popsicles. In sticking with the So Tampa theme, we definitely recommend Bread On The Bay Sandwicheria, a small hidden gem in Ybor City with some of the best Latin, Italian, and American classic sandwiches around…