As Dragon Con marks its 40th anniversary, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is toasting the milestone with two locally crafted products designed to welcome fans to the city. The Marietta-based company, which returns as the official vodka of the convention for the second year, is introducing Dragon Con Vodka and a new Dragon Con Apple Pie Craft Cider. These beverages will be available at key venues and retailers throughout the Labor Day weekend event, reinforcing the convention's deep ties to Atlanta's local business community.
The significance of this release extends beyond mere celebration. By partnering with a hometown producer, Dragon Con underscores its commitment to supporting local enterprises while offering attendees a taste of the region. Mark Deno, founder of Atlanta Distillery, emphasized the pride in crafting products for the influx of visitors. "We make everything in Marietta, so there's something special about welcoming Dragon Con fans with products made right here," he said. "This partnership lets us share a little more of Atlanta with people coming from all over the world."
The products will be strategically placed across the convention's main hotels, ensuring easy access for the estimated 80,000 attendees. At the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, guests can enjoy both the vodka and cider at the Lobby Market, seven branded satellite bars, and Twenty-Two Storys Lobby Bar, where a specialty cocktail called The 1986 will be featured. The Hilton Atlanta will showcase the products at The MarketPlace, along with a Dragon Con Bundle that includes a bottle of vodka and Filthy Bloody Mary pouches. Trader Vic's will host a tasting event on Friday evening, pairing the vodka with Red Bull. Similarly, the Westin Peachtree Plaza will offer the vodka and cider at Bar 210 and through room service, while the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown will stock them in its grab-and-go area.
Beyond hotel venues, the collaboration extends to themed events. The Red Phone Booth will transform into a Doctor Who-inspired experience, with a collectible cocktail menu featuring the vodka, cider, and a special Dragon Con Whiskey. The Dragon Con Cigar Group Kickoff on Thursday evening will feature specialty cocktails and giveaways, and a Parade Watch Party with a Disco Breakfast on Saturday will provide more opportunities for fans to enjoy the drinks.
For those wishing to take the experience home, the vodka and cider are available at several Atlanta retailers, including Peachtree Package Store, Sol's Liquor, Green's on Ponce, Publix at Piedmont, and Kroger on Ponce de Leon Avenue. Online orders can be placed at DragonConSpirits.com through September 30, subject to availability.
This initiative not only enhances the fan experience but also highlights the economic impact of such partnerships. By featuring a local craft producer, Dragon Con contributes to the visibility and growth of Atlanta's beverage industry. As the convention celebrates four decades of fandom, this collaboration serves as a reminder of the mutual benefits between large-scale events and small businesses, fostering community pride and economic vitality.
