As Dragon Con marks its 40th anniversary, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is commemorating 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 new Apple Pie Cider expands the collaboration. Both products will be available at key venues and retailers throughout downtown Atlanta from September 3 to 7, offering fans a taste of local craftsmanship.
The significance of this release extends beyond mere merchandise. By partnering with Dragon Con, the distillery taps into a massive influx of visitors, boosting Atlanta's economy and showcasing local products to a global audience. Mark Deno, founder of Atlanta Distillery, emphasizes the pride in welcoming fans with products made locally: "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."
Attendees will find the products at major host hotels. At the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Dragon Con Vodka and Apple Pie Cider will be available at the Lobby Market, seven branded satellite bars, and Twenty-Two Storys Lobby Bar. Guests can also try The 1986, a specialty cocktail made with Dragon Con Vodka. The Hilton Atlanta will feature both products at The MarketPlace, including a Dragon Con Bundle with 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 Vodka and Red Bull cocktail. The Westin Peachtree Plaza's Bar 210 will serve cocktails and cider, with both products also available in the grab-and-go store and through room service. The Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown will offer the products in its grab-and-go area, while Max Lager's Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery will feature Apple Pie Cider and a specialty cocktail.
Beyond hotel bars, Dragon Con events will integrate the spirits. The Red Phone Booth transforms 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 will feature specialty cocktails, and a Parade Watch Party and Disco Breakfast on Saturday will offer more opportunities to enjoy the beverages. Fans can follow @atldistillery and @atlantahardcider for additional activations.
For those wanting to bring the experience home, products are available at several Atlanta-area retailers including Peachtree Package Store, Sol's Liquor, Green's on Ponce, Publix at Piedmont, and Kroger. Online ordering is open until September 30 at DragonConSpirits.com. The limited products highlight the distillery's commitment to craft and community, as noted on their website: Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery.
This collaboration underscores the growing trend of local businesses leveraging major events to reach new customers, while enhancing the fan experience with authentic local flavor. The economic impact is significant, as Dragon Con attracts tens of thousands of visitors who contribute to the city's hospitality and retail sectors. By offering a taste of Atlanta, the distillery not only celebrates the convention's milestone but also strengthens its brand recognition and supports the local economy.
