ATLANTA — Thousands of pop culture fans are expected to descend upon downtown Atlanta this weekend for the annual Dragon Con.
The large multi-media popular culture convention focuses on science fiction, fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, art, music, and film.
Activities will be spread across five host hotels – Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree, and Courtland Grand (formerly Sheraton Atlanta) – and AmericasMart Buildings Two and Three.
How long does Dragon Con last?
The event lasts from Saturday, Aug. 29 to Monday, Sept. 2
Where can I get tickets?
Membership passes for one of multiple days can be purchased here on the convention's website. The link also allows you to pick up official merchandise.
Events to attend
Of course, you'll want to check out all the creative costumes at the Dragon Con Parade, which will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. on Peachtree Street downtown. For those eager to meet their favorite artists or pick up a unique souvenir, you can check out the Comic and Pop Artist Alley, located on the 4th floor of the AmericasMart building.
Other notable events include:
- Author signings
- Dragon Con Night at the Aquarium
- Late Night Puppet Slam
- Video and film rooms
- Kids character encounter
Notable guests in attendance
This year's Guests of Honor will be actor Vincent D'Onofrio and authors Nancy Kress and John Picacio. Other notable attendees include:
- Alan Tudyk
- Patrick Warburton
- Jodie Whittaker
- Elijah Wood
- Danny Trejo
- Cobie Smulders
- Manny Jacinto
- Giancarlo Esposito
- Nathan Fillion
- Mike Colter
Yet those names are just the tip of the iceberg! For a complete look at the actors, authors and comic artists who will be in attendance, click here.
How can I get around to the different venues?
According to Dragon Con's website, there are bus routes that run approximately every 30–45 minutes and have Dragon Con signs in the windows. For information on handicap-accessible shuttles, check in with Disability Services at the Courtland Grand.
For a complete look at bus routes and venue locations, click here.
MARTA will also make stops at Peachtree Center Station, where attendees can get off to attend events.
However, the transit authority asked Dragon Con attendees to "be mindful that costumes do not block the train doors and prevent them from closing."