What is DragonCon?
DragonCon is one of the largest fan conventions in North America, held annually in Atlanta, Georgia over Labor Day Weekend. Unlike single-venue conventions, DragonCon spans multiple hotels in downtown Atlanta — the Marriott Marquis, Hyatt Regency, Hilton, Sheraton, and Westin — connected by tunnels, skywalks, and the madness of Peachtree Street. Understanding the multi-hotel structure is the single most important orientation task for a first-time DragonCon attendee.
The Parade
The Saturday morning Dragon*Con Parade through downtown Atlanta is one of the convention's signature events — tens of thousands of cosplayers marching in formation through the streets of Atlanta while an enormous crowd lines the route. To participate: register your costume group in advance (the registration process opens months before the event); arrive at the parade staging area significantly before the announced start time; be prepared for heat (Atlanta in early September is warm and humid — plan your costume accordingly).
The Masquerade
DragonCon's masquerade competition is one of the premier cosplay competitions in North America. Entries compete in constructed and craftsmanship categories. Competition for main stage positions is fierce; prejudging (where the actual craftsmanship judging happens) is often more important than the stage presentation. If you're competing, register early and prepare your craftsmanship documentation thoroughly.
Hotel Strategy
The official convention hotels book out within minutes of room reservations opening — set a calendar reminder and be ready. The tunnels connecting the hotels are essential navigation tools; learn them early on the first day. Each hotel has a distinct character and track focus — the Marriott tends to be the central social hub; the Hyatt has specific programming tracks; understand the geography before you commit to a schedule.
Room Parties
The DragonCon room party culture — floors of hotel rooms hosting themed parties throughout the night — is a significant part of the convention experience. They're generally welcoming to strangers; showing up in costume helps. The Marriott and Hyatt host the densest concentration of parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
As soon as the reservation window opens — typically in late January for the September event. The official hotels sell out within minutes. Set a calendar reminder for the exact opening time.
Learn the tunnel routes on your first day before committing to a busy schedule. The underground connections between the Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton are essential for wet or very hot weather. The skywalks provide an alternative route.
It can be overwhelming as a first convention due to its scale. A smaller regional convention as a first experience, then DragonCon once you have convention experience, is Heidi's recommendation.