Everything you need to know about Dragon Con 2022

What was once a small sci-fi and fantasy convention has become one of the biggest conventions in the South.

The 36th annual Dragon Con is coming to Atlanta in just a few weeks, and the convention is set to return to pre-pandemic programming and attendance levels. Last year, Dragon Con implemented parade restrictions and slashed attendance to roughly 40,000 — down from 80,000 in 2019. This year, attendance is expected to be 50% higher than in 2021, and the parade is once again open to the public.

Spanning five days over Labor Day weekend, Sept. 1-5, this year’s event features tracks on everything from anime to “filk” singing to celebrities from every corner of pop culture.

And just like that, Dragon Con is back. So for those in search of this year’s Dragon Con 101, look no further. Here is everything you need to know:

When is Dragon Con?

The festival is Sept. 1-5, spanning Labor Day weekend in Atlanta.

Where is it?

The conference is held in five “host hotels” in downtown Atlanta throughout the day and night: the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, the Hilton Atlanta, the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel, and the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel. Sky bridges connect the Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton hotels, making it easy to travel between them. AmericasMart Buildings One and Two host additional events and activities.

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COVID-19 protocols

This year’s Dragon Con follows similar COVID-19 protocols as last year, with CDC guidelines serving as a guidepost. This includes indoor mask requirements, attendance caps, reduced panel room capacities and stepped-up cleaning protocols.

“While things are certainly better now than they were a year ago, we are not yet out of the woods. Unfortunately, the spread of COVID in the metro-Atlanta area is currently at a high level. Therefore, it is necessary to continue to take precautions to keep our attendees, guests and partners safe. These decisions were not made lightly and came as a result of many discussions with health officials, our venues, and the city,” Dan Carroll, media engagement director, said in a press release.

Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test is not required this year. For the most up-to-date information about all things Dragon Con and COVID-19, visit dragoncon.org

When is the Dragon Con parade?

The parade is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, from 10 a.m. to about noon.

Dragon Con’s virtual option

Fans who can’t attend in person this year can still enjoy the action and excitement from home.

For just $10, you can live stream Dragon Con TV. With the pass, viewers can watch the hotel feeds featuring coverage of some main programming panels (live or pre-recorded), major events (Parade, Masquerade, Friday Night Costuming Contest), news updates from the convention and more!

Passes

To start with, Dragon Con sells memberships rather than passes. According to the Dragon Con website, “attendees are called Members because this is a Con created by and for fans dedicated to geeking out over some of the same amazing stuff.”

There are various membership options, including weekend, daily, and even an “eternal” membership pass for $4,000. Your badge is essential regardless of when you get to the convention. You’ll need to wear it the entire time you’re there, and if you lose it, you’ll have to buy a new one. Memberships must be purchased online through GrowTix.

Parking info

Unless you stay in a host hotel or live downtown, MARTA, Uber and Lyft are strongly recommended. If you’re taking MARTA, the Peachtree Center Station will put you in the thick of the excitement.

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If you are planning to drive, reserve parking ahead of time using the ParkMobile or Spot Hero parking reservation apps. On Dragon Con’s transportation website, you may also find further travel information, including parking.

What is there to do and see

There are endless experiences to seek out at Dragon Con. From daily panels and programming to online and offline gaming areas to the famed Dragon Con parade. Follow your heart and keep track of the schedule with the Dragon Con app.