Cigar herfs — or smoking parties — have certainly been around for centuries, although they were not always called by that name. It's impossible to say what the etymology of the word is, but it first came into common usage during the '90s in one or several cigar newsgroups (before the advent of internet forums). Smoking has always been a communal activity, though. Native Americans considered tobacco to be sacred, and it formed a part of many of their rituals. In the 19th century, the smoking-room was an important part of American and European culture; generally speaking it was a male-only atmosphere, and the men would retire to the smoking room after dinner to discuss serious subjects. Today, cigar-smoking is often seen as an upper-class activity, though this was not always the case. In any event, cigar smoke can serve to provide a meditative atmosphere, suitable for protracted conversation. At the very least, it makes a good excuse to gather friends and acquaintances around a common pasttime, and this is really what a cigar herf is all about. Most novice smokers buy cigar bundles to save money and get a feel for various cigars before spending money on premium cigars.

If you live near a cigar shop or cigar lounge, this is a good place to inquire as to when and where a herf will take place. Although smoking is generally prohibited in public buildings, exceptions in local statute are sometimes made for cigar shops, and these shops often provide an excellent atmosphere for a herf—leather chairs, accessible and ornate ashtrays, and sometimes alcoholic beverages. Herfs can also take place in hotels, private homes, and of course backyards. The term is loose enough to apply to high-class gatherings in upper-end hotels and also to a simple circle of friends around a fire pit.

New cigar smokers might find their first herf to be a bit intimidating, especially if the others in the herf are knowledgeable and experienced. It won't hurt to educate yourself a bit before your first herf — learn how to cut and light a cigar, how to keep it burning well, how often to draw, and how to put it out. It's good practice, too, to bring your own cigar, and perhaps even bring a cigar or two for the host. If the herf is being held in a cigar shop or lounge, though, it's considered rude not to buy a cigar from the proprietor, much as it would be rude to attend a wine-tasting without buying some of the product being offered.

In general, though, the important thing is to enjoy yourself. Nobody likes a snob, and you shouldn't feel pressured to show off your knowledge of cigars. The point of a herf is to smoke what you like, to be among friends, and to have good conversations.