Friday, September 11, 2015

Dragon Con Parade 2015

The Dragon Con Parade is one of my favorite annual events and it's one of Atlanta's largest parades! 


Dragon Con Parade 2015 | Nichelle Nichols
Dragon Con Parade 2015 | Nichelle Nichols

I first had the great honor of meeting Nichelle Nichols—the Grand Marshall of this year's parade—in 2012, also at Dragon Con, but that meeting was one that changed my outlook on life. When I asked her if she still enjoyed the Star Trek and fandom conventions she told me "I only do that which brings me joy". 

She's been a hero of mine for many years and after sharing those words—that jewel of wisdom—I'll be a fan of Nichelle's for as long as I live...her outlook on life has helped me prosper. (She's a huge fan of the Vulcan Salute, "Live Long and Prosper".)  


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

The Dragon Con Parade is presented in themes. There will be a Star Trek group, a superheros group (including a number of Batman characters—classic and contemporary!), a Battlestar Galactica group and—one of my favorites—a Periodic Table of Elements group where each cosplayer represents a different element via their costume! They're brilliant! Or should I say, "radiant!" The parade goes on and on... 

As I said, this is one of Atlanta's biggest parades, so plan to arrive early for a prime viewing spot...and allow for those who do not observe the street curb as a demarcation of where to stand—meaning, what you thought was an optimum spot might change as the crowd grows. Patience is a virtue...as they say. 


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

Minions!

Despicable Me introduced the world to Minions, a global sensation, and yes, I am a fan! When I saw this GIANT Minion, I whipped out my camera as quickly as I could...this cosplayer is brilliant! And he/she put smiles on everyone around. 

I haven't seen the new Minions movie yet, but it's at the top of my list! 


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

If you've followed the Captain America movies, you'll get how cool this is. THIS the the caliber of parade participants we get at Dragon Con. Awesome, right? 


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

If you've been interested in attending the convention, but you're not yet quite sure...at least check out the parade. It's a glimpse (only a glimpse, mind you) of just how much fun Dragon Con really is.


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

Mind you, while the parade is a family-friendly event, you probably don't want your young children at the late-night events of Dragon Con. But the parade thrills spectators of all ages. 


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

There was a new parade route this year, so I departed my usual spot at Peachtree & Baker, but as usual, opted for the side of the street where the sun would illuminate those who were in the parade...makes for much better photos!


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

All that glitters...just might be gold!

Again, I must compliment the cosplayers' talent, time invested, money spent and determination to parade down Peachtree Street. This truly is a fun and festive event. If you've never been, please come see it next year! 


Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015
Parade viewing guidelines from the Dragon Con website:

We want to provide the safest and most fun experience for everyone involved. To help us accomplish this, please do not stand or sit in the streets along the route. Parade participants are often in large, bulky costumes with limited viewing range. Many of our vehicles are huge and require lots of maneuvering and turning room. We don't want anyone accidentally squished!

Dragon Con Parade 2015
Dragon Con Parade 2015

So, come down to the Annual Dragon Con Parade next year, Dragon Con's 30th anniversary...it promises to be out of this world!

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