Dragon Con, one of the biggest pop culture and gaming conventions in the country, returns to Atlanta Sept. 3-7.

The convention will be spread out over five hotels in Downtown Atlanta – the Hilton, Marriott Marquis, and Hyatt Regency (all connected by indoor sky bridges), as well as the Courtland Grand and Westin Peachtree Plaza – and AmericasMart, a wholesale marketplace a quick walk away from the main hotels.

This year, the convention’s featured guests include actors and twin brothers Shawn and Aaron Ashmore, known for their work in shows like “Locke & Key” and “The Boys,” respectively; Actor Sean Astin, best known for playing Samwise Gamgee in “The Lord of the Rings” series; Actors James Callis and Aaron Douglas from “Battlestar Galactica;” and Lena Headey, known for playing Queen Cersei on “Game of Thrones.” The full list of 2026 guests can be found online.

In addition to famous faces, Dragon Con will have plenty of other programming to enjoy. Attendees can participate in costume and cosplay contests, meet their favorite stars at the Walk of Fame, head to Comic and Pop Artist Alley, or check out numerous vendors selling their wares. Attendees can also check out different workshops covering everything sword combat to voice acting.

The biggest event of the weekend will be the Dragon Con Parade, which takes place on Sept. 5 starting at 10 a.m. and running along Peachtree Street in Downtown. The parade is free and open to the public.

Passes for Dragon Con can be purchased online.

Sammie Purcell is Associate Editor at Rough Draft Atlanta where she writes about arts & entertainment, including editing the weekly Scene newsletter.