As Dragon Con marks its 40th anniversary, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is welcoming fans with two locally made products: Dragon Con Vodka and Dragon Con Apple Pie Craft Cider. The Marietta-based company is returning as the Official Vodka of Dragon Con for a second consecutive year, while the cider is a new release for 2026. This collaboration underscores the convention’s deep roots in Atlanta and the importance of local businesses in supporting major events.
The products will be available throughout the Dragon Con footprint in downtown Atlanta from September 3 to 7, including at the Hyatt Regency, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree Plaza, Hilton Garden Inn, and Max Lager’s Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery. At the Hyatt, guests can enjoy The 1986, a specialty cocktail made with Dragon Con Vodka, while the Hilton will offer a Dragon Con Bundle with a bottle of vodka and four Bloody Mary pouches. The Westin will serve both products at Bar 210 and through room service, and Max Lager’s will feature a specialty cocktail with the vodka.
Mark Deno, founder of Atlanta Distillery, emphasized the local connection: “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.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend of craft producers aligning with major cultural events to showcase regional identity.
Beyond hotel bars, the products will be featured at Dragon Con events, including a Doctor Who-inspired activation at Red Phone Booth, which will transform from red to blue. A collectible comic-book-style cocktail menu will highlight Dragon Con Vodka, the cider, and Short Barrel’s Dragon Con Whiskey across four venues. The Dragon Con Cigar Group Kickoff on Thursday and a Parade Watch Party and Disco Breakfast on Saturday will also feature the beverages.
Fans can purchase the products at local retailers such as Peachtree Package Store, Sol’s Liquor, Green’s on Ponce, Publix at Piedmont, and Kroger, or online at DragonConSpirits.com through September 30. The limited availability adds urgency for collectors and enthusiasts.
The economic impact of Dragon Con is significant, drawing attendees from across the country and world. By offering locally produced beverages, the convention not only enhances the fan experience but also supports Atlanta’s craft beverage industry. This partnership highlights how major events can boost local businesses and showcase regional products to a global audience.
As Dragon Con celebrates four decades, the collaboration with Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery reinforces the convention’s commitment to community and local culture. It also provides a model for other events to incorporate homegrown brands, potentially increasing tourism and economic benefits. For attendees, these products offer a taste of Atlanta that extends beyond the convention halls, creating lasting connections to the city.
