As Dragon Con marks its 40th anniversary, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is toasting the occasion with two locally crafted products: Dragon Con Vodka and Dragon Con Apple Pie Craft Cider. The Marietta-based distillery returns as the Official Vodka of Dragon Con for the second consecutive year, while the cider is a new addition for 2026. These beverages will be available throughout the convention footprint in downtown Atlanta from September 3 to 7.
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 underscores the importance of supporting local businesses and celebrating regional pride during major events.
The products will be featured at key venues including the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, where guests can find them at the Lobby Market, seven Dragon Con-branded satellite bars, and Twenty-Two Storys Lobby Bar. A signature cocktail, The 1986, highlights the vodka. The Hilton Atlanta will offer both products at The MarketPlace, along with a Dragon Con Bundle containing a 750 mL bottle of vodka and four Filthy Bloody Mary pouches. Trader Vic's will host a tasting and promotion on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. featuring a cocktail made with Dragon Con Vodka and Red Bull. The Westin Peachtree Plaza's Bar 210 will serve cocktails and cider, with room service options available. The Hilton Garden Inn and Max Lager's Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery will also feature the products.
Beyond hotel bars, the collaboration extends to special events. 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. The Dragon Con Cigar Group Kickoff on Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. and a Parade Watch Party and Disco Breakfast on Saturday are among the festivities. Fans can follow @atldistillery and @atlantahardcider for additional activations.
For those wanting to take the experience home, products are available at participating retailers like 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. The limited-edition items are expected to sell out quickly, reflecting the strong fan demand and the economic impact of such collaborations.
This initiative not only enhances the convention experience but also boosts local business visibility. By aligning with a major event like Dragon Con, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery strengthens its brand presence and contributes to the city's reputation as a hub for craft beverages. The release of these commemorative products celebrates both the convention's milestone and Atlanta's vibrant local culture.
