Sugar Land Town Square is set to host the third annual Texas Fest, billed as
the largest cigar social in Texas and the Southwest.
The cigar festival will be hosted by Town Square retailer Cigar, Cigar! It will
take place Oct. 18 from 3-10 p.m. in the plaza area.
In order to hold the festival, the Sugar Land City Council had to approve a
one-day exemption to the city’s ban on smoking in public places. The approval
came during the Sept. 2 council meeting.
Community and Environmental Director Mike Goodrum told the council that the
Texas Fest is modeled after the “Big Smoke” event held annually in Las Vegas.
Proceeds from the cigar festival will benefit the “Impact a Hero” organization,
which assists disabled veterans in Fort Bend County.
"The smoking in public places ordinance does not at this time allow either the
city council or the city staff to provide for an exception to the prohibition of
smoking in Town Square," Goodrum told the council. "As a result, an exception
would require an ordinance amendment provided by city council."
The exemption came in a 6-1 vote with Councilman Tom Abraham casting the
dissenting vote.
The event will offer free cigars for all paid guests, two bands providing live
entertainment, spirits and wine and displays from more than 20 cigar
manufacturers.
Additionally, thousands of dollars worth of merchandise will be raffled away,
with a grand prize of a 2009 Harley Davidson Road King motorcycle.
Tickets for the Texas Fest are now on sale and can be purchased for $100 at
www.phoenixcigar.com.
