As Dragon Con marks its 40th anniversary, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is commemorating the milestone with two locally-made products: Dragon Con Vodka and Dragon Con Apple Pie Craft Cider. The Marietta-based company, which also operates as Atlanta Distillery, returns as the Official Vodka of Dragon Con for the second consecutive year and expands its partnership with a new cider release. This collaboration underscores the convention's deep roots in Atlanta and the community's support for local businesses.
The products will be available throughout the Dragon Con footprint in downtown Atlanta from September 3 to 7, including at major host hotels and local venues. Mark Deno, founder of Atlanta Distillery, emphasized the significance of welcoming fans with locally crafted products: "We make everything in Marietta, so there's something special about welcoming Dragon Con fans with products made right here. This partnership lets us share a little more of Atlanta with people coming from all over the world."
At the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, attendees can find Dragon Con Vodka and Apple Pie Cider at the Lobby Market, seven branded satellite bars, and Twenty-Two Storys Lobby Bar. A specialty cocktail called The 1986, made with Dragon Con Vodka, will be offered. The Hilton Atlanta will feature both products at The MarketPlace, including a Dragon Con Bundle with a 750 mL bottle of vodka and four 8-ounce Filthy Bloody Mary pouches. Trader Vic's will host a tasting and promotion on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring a cocktail with Dragon Con Vodka and Red Bull. The Westin Peachtree Plaza will serve the spirits at Bar 210 and through room service, while the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown will have them in its grab-and-go area. Max Lager's Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery will also offer the cider and a specialty vodka cocktail.
Beyond hotel bars, Dragon Con-themed events will showcase the products. The Red Phone Booth will transform into a Doctor Who-inspired experience, with a collectible comic-book-style cocktail menu featuring Dragon Con Vodka, Apple Pie Cider, and Short Barrel's Dragon Con Whiskey across four venues. The Dragon Con Cigar Group Kickoff is scheduled Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Red Phone Booth, offering specialty cocktails and giveaways. On Saturday, a Parade Watch Party and Disco Breakfast will take place in the Grand Ballroom from 9 a.m. to noon. Fans can follow @atldistillery and @atlantahardcider for announcements about additional tastings and activations.
For those wanting to take the experience home, Dragon Con Vodka and Apple Pie Cider are available at participating retailers such as Peachtree Package Store, Sol's Liquor, Green's on Ponce, Publix at Piedmont, and Kroger on Ponce de Leon Avenue. Online ordering is available at DragonConSpirits.com through September 30, while supplies last.
This initiative not only enhances the fan experience but also highlights the economic impact of Dragon Con on Atlanta. By featuring locally-made products, the convention supports regional businesses and promotes Atlanta's craft beverage industry to a global audience. As the city welcomes thousands of visitors, these commemorative items serve as a toast to four decades of community and tradition.
