Fun Facts About Dragon Con that you Probably Didn’t Know
Last Updated August 27, 2025
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Every Labor Day weekend, downtown Atlanta transforms into a playground for pop culture fans, cosplayers, gamers and sci-fi enthusiasts from around the world. Dragon Con isn’t just a convention –it’s a tradition with a rich history, quirky moments and a big impact on the city. Here are some fun facts you may not know about this legendary gathering:
The first Dragon Con was way back in 1987.
October 2–4, 1987 marked the very first Dragon Con, held at the Pierremont Plaza Hotel. Today, that hotel is known as the Crowne Plaza Midtown.
The Marriott carpet has its own fandom.
A Dragon Con cult classic was born when cosplayers suited up as Army Men — but with a twist. Their camouflage pattern? The iconic, multicolored Marriott carpet.
There’s never a dull moment.
For Dragon Con 2025, more than 2,000 panels, events and parties are planned, totaling about 3,500 hours of nonstop content. Pace yourself.
The parade has humble beginnings.
The famous Dragon Con parade, now a downtown spectacle, was inspired 25 years ago by something much simpler: a Salvation Army parade.
Giving back is part of the mission.
Dragon Con has donated $1.5 million to local Atlanta charities in just the past five years.
Superheroes off the stage, too.
Founded in 2014, the Dragon Con Superheroes volunteer program has racked up more than 4,300 hours with Atlanta nonprofits.
Even the pandemic couldn’t stop the fun.
In 2020, Dragon Con went virtual — and fans from six continents tuned in to be part of the four-day digital celebration.
Dragon Con has grown from a small gathering of fans in a single hotel to one of the world’s most beloved pop culture conventions. Whether it’s the cosplay, the panels, the parade or just the sense of community, one thing’s clear: Dragon Con is pure Atlanta magic.
During your time in Atlanta enjoying Dragon Con, check out where to go before, during and after.
Daniela Cintrón is an award-winning journalist, editor, and producer passionate about storytelling at the intersection of food, art, and culture. She is the content manager and bilingual editor for Discover Atlanta and contributes to publications like the Los Angeles Times, Atlanta Magazine and Eater.
Originally Published August 22, 2025
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