The Sweet History of Bubblegum Cigars

Before gender reveal cakes and balloon-popping parties, there was a simpler — and sweeter — way to celebrate a new baby: the bubblegum cigar. These colorful, chewy treats are a nostalgic favorite that once bridged childhood fun and grown-up tradition. Let’s take a look back at the unique history of bubblegum cigars — and why they might deserve a comeback.

From Penny Candy to Baby Showers

Bubblegum cigars first popped up in the mid-20th century during the golden age of penny candy. Back then, kids could walk into a corner store with a handful of change and walk out with a paper bag full of treats — including a brightly colored “cigar” made entirely of bubblegum. Wrapped in foil and styled like the real thing, these novelty candies let kids pretend to be adults in the most innocent (and flavorful) way possible.

But bubblegum cigars weren’t just for kids. By the 1950s and 60s, they had taken on a new role in adult celebrations — especially baby announcements. It became a popular tradition for new dads to hand out pink or blue bubblegum cigars to friends and coworkers, a fun and candy-coated spin on the old practice of passing out real cigars in celebration. They were playful, non-smoking, and safe for everyone — including visiting kids and nurses at the hospital.

Colors and Flavors

One of the most charming things about bubblegum cigars is how fun they look — and taste. Traditionally, they came in bright, playful colors like classic pink, baby blue, yellow, and green. Each color was typically tied to a fruity flavor, like strawberry, banana, or apple, though the most iconic flavor remained the sweet, unmistakable taste of original bubblegum.

Some versions even had a light dusting of powdered sugar to resemble the "ash" of a real cigar, adding to the novelty. Whether you were into the fruity variations or preferred the classic bubblegum, unwrapping one of these was always a treat that felt a little more special than your everyday chew.

A Fading Tradition

As attitudes around smoking changed and more awareness was brought to the dangers of tobacco, candy modeled after cigarettes and cigars began to fall out of favor. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, bubblegum cigars were no longer as common in stores, and the tradition of handing them out at baby showers began to fade.

Add to that a new wave of baby celebrations — from elaborate gender reveals to personalized party favors — and bubblegum cigars quietly slipped into the background. Today, they’re more of a retro novelty, found mostly in specialty candy shops or nostalgic online retailers (like Life is Sweet!)

Why Not Bring Them Back?

Sure, bubblegum cigars are a little kitschy — but that’s part of the charm! In a world full of over-the-top party trends, bubblegum cigars offer something refreshingly simple and sweet. They’re fun, they’re colorful, and they bring a touch of lighthearted tradition to modern celebrations.

Whether you’re looking to add a vintage vibe to a baby shower, fill a retro candy jar, or just relive a piece of childhood, bubblegum cigars still have plenty of appeal. You can even order them online here to start your own sweet little throwback tradition.

Sometimes, the best traditions are the ones that remind us not to take life — or candy — too seriously.

Do you remember bubblegum cigars? Did you ever get one to celebrate a new baby? Let us know your favorite memory in the comments!