Connoisseur Club at Festivalishche 2026 in Nizhny Novgorod

On July 31 and August 1, 2026, Nizhny Novgorod hosted Festivalishche, an annual event organised by the Chkalov Cigar Club. Members of Connoisseur Club attended the festival and became part of this major gathering of Russia’s cigar community.

Festivalishche grew out of the Nizhny Novgorod Cigar Antifestival, first held in 2019. Today it is a recognised event that brings together aficionados from different cities, cigar clubs, industry representatives and everyone who values good company, engaging conversation and the culture of unhurried leisure.

The 2026 programme spanned two days and several venues. The festival opened at the Fregat Yacht Club with Eau-de-Vie, a celebration of premium drinks marking the company’s 35th anniversary. The following day featured an intimate domino tournament at Cigar & Porto Lounge and a Caribbean party at Garden Hall celebrating the seventh anniversary of the Chkalov Club.

For Connoisseur Club representatives, the trip was a wonderful opportunity to meet friends and like-minded people, make new acquaintances and once again experience the diversity and hospitality of Russia’s cigar community.

We thoroughly enjoyed the festival, had a wonderful time and returned home with vivid impressions, new connections and many warm memories. Events like this strengthen ties between clubs, broaden the circle of communication and help develop cigar culture in Russia.

We thank Chkalov Club president Artyom Shcherbakov, the organising team and everyone involved in creating Festivalishche 2026 for their warm welcome, rich programme and distinctive atmosphere.

We wish the festival continued growth, fresh ideas, reliable partners and an ever larger community of guests. Until we meet again in Nizhny Novgorod!