Dragoncon Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs about Dragon*con, the biggest Sci-Fi and Fantasy Conference
Aug 31, 2009
Labor Day weekend has arrived in Atlanta, and while some consider a trip to Stone Mountain or Callaway, there are over thirty thousand people who make the pilgrimage downtown to see science fiction and fantasy come to life.
What Do People Actually Do at Dragon*con?
Whatever strikes their fancy! In the hotels there are parties and gatherings, there are bands, role-playing games, artist markets, vendors to shop, guests to meet, panels and discussions and demonstrations to attend.
There are abundant learning opportunities - whether folks are interested in the latest video gaming technology, independent film efforts or how to make a corset.
Or, for the laid-back types, people-watching is always high on the list. Check out a trivia challenge in your favorite track, a screening of rare footage, or a sing-a-long. The Annual Dawn Look-Alike contest and the Annual Ms. Klingon Empire Beauty Pageant are always a hit.
Will I Really Get to Meet My Favorite Actor / Author / Artist?
Yes. At the least personal level, Actors, Authors and Artists will appear in large group discussions in their related tracks. For example, Leonard Nimoy would appear in Star Trek related activities (a.k.a. the TrekTrak) , while crossover stars like James Marsters would appear in panels and discussions about Buffy the Vampire Slayer (the Whedonverse) Smallville (American Sci-fi Media)and Torchwood (British Sci-fi Media / Whoniverse).
Also, all of the guests have times schedule to be at their tables signing photographs for fans, so you will be able to ask questions 1-on-1 and actually meet (insert famous guest name here).
Fair warning though, those autographed photos aren't cheap. Some have a range of photos for various prices. Take cash, and the bigger the star, the longer the line.
Can I Get my Picture Taken With My Favorite Actor for Free?
This really depends on the actor, you will have to ask. Some don't mind. Others do. Some charge a nominal fee ($5), each one is different. Just ask! The worst thing that can happen is they say no, and you have a longer conversation to blog about later.
How Much Money Should I Bring?
Depends on what you're looking for. If you're going to get a bunch of autographs, bring at least $25 each. If you want to buy art, you will want to budget substantially more than that. The vendor's area has everything from a $2 Star Gate patch to a $500 sword.
Don't forget to budget for food, or bring some PB&J along to stash in your room! Food is available at the hotel bars and restaurants, as well as in the Peachtree Center food court area, where you can find everything from Chinese food to Chic-Fil-A.
Those Tickets are Out of My Budget – What Can I Do?
There are several things you can do to save money on tickets to Dragon*con:
- Pick the single day that means the most to you and pay for that at the gate (prepare for long lines).
- Plan ahead and buy tickets earlier in the year. The tickets are at their least expensive in September after the most recent convention. If you're certain you're going back next year, prepaying can save a bundle.
- If that's still too steep, watch the website for calls for volunteers
- Last but not least, the brokest of attendees just go watch the parade on Saturday morning, and people watch at Peachtree Center.
Can I Bring My Child to Dragon*Con?
Yes, but the question is – do you want to? If you purchase a membership for a child under 7, you can use the onsite daycare, which is a nice back-up plan. If your child knows a lot of these characters and will be excited about meeting an idol in person, it can be a fun way to spend time with the little ones. Most kids are unwilling to sit through even the most interesting demonstrations and panels. So this depends on your kids level of interest, focus, attention span and overall behavior.
How Should I Dress for Dragon*Con?
However you want to dress! Whatever makes you comfortable. It is safe to say "anything goes." Some attendees go all out, full steampunk regalia, full stormtrooper blinding white armor, you may even spot Princess Leia in her gold bikini.
How do you dress for the Georgia Renaissance Fair? If you answered "shorts and a T-shirt" and not "full medieval garb" then wear shorts and a T-shirt to Dragon*con. There are crowded hallways and a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes may be high on your list.
The best part about a crowd of geeks is that no one is judging you - unless you enter a contest.
Please note - These are answers and observations of an Atlanta resident and 6-time Dragon*con attendee. For more complete and in-depth information, please visit the official Dragon*con website.
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