Capital Cigar Lounge
Capital Cigar Lounge is bringing an international competition to Lincoln next week, giving one Nebraska cigar enthusiast the chance to earn a spot on Team USA and compete against participants from more than 50 countries.
The lounge will host Nebraska’s official regional qualifier for the 2026 World Slow Smoke Championship on Friday, July 10. The winner advances to the U.S. Championship with the opportunity to represent the United States at the World Slow Smoke Championship in Dubrovnik, Croatia, where competitors from 52 countries are expected to participate.
Unlike traditional competitions, success depends on patience rather than speed.
Each competitor receives an official Oliva competition cigar, two matches, and one minute to light it. Once the contest begins, competitors must remain silent for the first 45 minutes while keeping the cigar’s ash intact. The goal is simple: keep the cigar lit longer than everyone else. The final competitor with a lit cigar is declared the winner.
Capital Cigar Lounge co-owner Tony Goins said the event quickly becomes much more than a competition.
“People come expecting to watch a competition,” Goins said. “What surprises them is how invested they become. Before long, you’re cheering for someone you’ve never met. It’s one of those rare events that brings people together, and everyone leaves talking about it.”
Nebraska is one of only 10 regional qualifying locations in the United States, making Lincoln the exclusive host site for the state’s competition. Last year was Nebraska’s first year participating in the championship. Regional winner Eddie Lankas went on to represent the United States in Croatia.
Goins said the international event emphasizes fellowship as much as competition.
“This competition is about far more than winning,” Goins said. “It’s about slowing down, enjoying the moment, meeting incredible people, and being part of something much bigger than yourself.”
Organizers say both experienced cigar smokers and first-time competitors are welcome. Competitor registration is $25, which includes the official competition cigar, while admission for spectators is free. Attendees can watch the competition, socialize, and cheer on participants throughout the evening.
Details are available at CapitalCigar.com