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The Ultimate LUG CON 2026 Event Lineup: Free Drafts & 2,700+ Games

The Ultimate LUG CON 2026 Event Lineup: Free Drafts, 2,700+ Games & More!

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The countdown is officially on! If you’ve been waiting to see what makes this four-day tabletop gaming convention an absolute must-attend, the initial LUG CON 2026 event lineup is here—and it is packed with non-stop tabletop action.

Whether you are a lifelong board gamer, a competitive Trading Card Game (TCG) strategist, a tabletop RPG adventurer, or brand new to the hobby, LUG CON 2026 is your ultimate chance to explore more games in one weekend than anywhere else.

While official event sign-ups open in late August, seats at our hottest tables will fill up fast. Previewing the initial lineup now gives you the inside track on what to bookmark—and why you need your convention badge secured before registration doors open!

What’s Inside the Initial LUG CON 2026 Event Lineup?

From casual learn-to-play sessions and beginner-friendly demos to high-stakes tournaments, hobbying workshops, puzzles, and miniatures, our schedule is designed so every attendee can jump right into the action. Here are just a few of the headline attractions waiting for you:

The Massive 2,700+ Game Library (As Seen at Gen Con!)

Board Game Library 2700 titles

We are partnering with Lending Library Logistics to bring you the legendary Game Library as seen at Gen Con featuring more than 2,700 tabletop games available to borrow, play, and return!

  • 100% Free with Your Badge: Simply check out a game, grab an open table in the main gaming ballroom, play with friends (or make new ones!), and return it when you’re done.
  • Play to Win Program: In partnership with Envoy, many titles in the library are part of our Play to Win program. Try out a participating board game and return it to automatically be entered into a drawing to win that very copy to take home!

FREE Daily Magic: The Gathering (MTG) Drafts

Magic: The Gathering Free Drafts

Yes, you read that right! FREE Magic Drafts, three times a day, every single day of the con.

Open fresh booster packs, draft your 40-card deck with 2–8 players, and battle it out in 20-minute head-to-head matches. The best part? You get free Magic cards to keep! (Available while supplies last; booster packs are opened and handed out as each session begins).

The 70+ Vendor Exhibit Hall & Direct Access Booths

LUG CON Vendor hall 70 vendors

Take a break between gaming sessions to explore a sprawling tabletop marketplace featuring over 70 vendors from across the country.

Situated right inside our gaming rooms, specialized Direct Access Booths let you jump into a live game demo with the creators, learn the rules, and buy the game just steps away. Meanwhile, our Artist Alley features 20+ local creators offering prints, custom accessories, dice, and commissions.

An Immersive Fantasy Market Managed by Dragon Eye

LUG Con Fantasy Market

Step out of the mundane world and into an enchanting bazaar just outside the main gaming ballroom. Our brand-new Fantasy Market brings together an elite guild of independent makers, leather smiths, woodworkers, and jewelers.

Why You Need to Prepare Now (Don’t Get Left From the Table!)

Event Sign-Ups officially launch in late August, and historically, the most popular RPG campaigns, tournament slots, and exclusive publisher learn-to-plays book out within hours.

To reserve your seats on Tabletop.Events the moment registration goes live, you must already have your convention badge tied to your account. Don’t wait until August and risk missing out on the games you want to play most!

You can explore our full expanding schedule and activity breakdown directly on the official LUG CON 2026 Events Page.

⏰ Don’t Miss the “SMIRK” Deal – Ends July 31st!

Smirk Deal. Use Code SMIRK for $10 off 4-day adult badges through July 31

Want to save money and score free loot before event registration opens? Take advantage of our exclusive early-bird deal before it expires:

Use Promo Code: SMIRK at checkout to get $10 OFF your 4-Day Adult Badge AND receive a FREE GAME!

This limited-time offer ends strictly on July 31st.

👉 Click Here to Buy Your LUG CON 2026 Badge Now on Tabletop.Events!

Lock in your badge today, use code SMIRK before the deadline, and get ready to claim your seat at the table when event sign-ups drop in late August. We’re here to play—see you at LUG CON 2026!

LUG CON Board Game Lineup

The Ultimate LUG CON 2026 Board Game Lineup: Massive Libraries, Epic Exhibitors & Free Games!

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Are you ready for an unforgettable tabletop experience? LUG CON 2026 is officially shaping up to be the premier Southeast board game convention this October. We have been working tirelessly behind the scenes, and our board game lineup is officially packed with absolute must-see exhibitors, massive gaming libraries, and exclusive freebies.

Whether you are a casual player looking for fun party games, a family looking for accessible entertainment, or a hardcore tabletop strategist, LUG CON 2026 at the Gas South Convention Center is your ultimate destination.

Here is an exclusive look at the incredible board game exhibitors and tabletop events shaping up for our October board game lineup!

Lending Library Logistics: The Massive Gen Con Board Game Library is Coming

Lending Library Logistics

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the colossal scale of the Midwest’s biggest board game conventions right here in the Southeast, your wish has been granted! We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Lending Library Logistics, who are loading up the trucks to bring their world-famous board game library—as seen at Gen Con—directly to us.

Prepare yourself for a staggering collection of over 3,500 unique tabletop titles. From grueling heavy Eurogames to hilarious modern party games, they have it all. Plus, they will be running an epic Play-to-Win section where you can test-drive designated board games and potentially take them home to your own shelf for free!

📖 Want the full scoop on this massive vault? Dive into our original Lending Library Logistics announcement for all the jaw-dropping stats.

KennyCon: Georgia’s Friendliest Board Game Event Brings “Buzzworthy Games”

KennyCon

We are incredibly proud to partner with KennyCon, widely celebrated as Georgia’s friendliest board game event. While they are famous for their amazing flagship events in West Cobb County, they are setting up shop at LUG CON 2026 to host an exclusive mystery showcase layout on the convention floor.

The KennyCon crew will be showcasing a handpicked selection of highly anticipated, top-secret tabletop games. Their famously welcoming community will be right there in the action to teach rules, run sessions, and ensure everyone has an unforgettable time at the table.

📖 Get the event roadmap: Check out our featured exhibitor spotlight on KennyCon to see how they are shaking up our autumn schedule.

Smirk & Dagger Games: A Direct Access Booth & A FREE Board Game!

Smirk & Dagger

Our featured vendor, Smirk & Dagger Games, is bringing their signature blend of backstabbing strategy and whimsical fun to LUG CON 2026 with a highly interactive, open-floor booth program. This open floor plan means you can seamlessly interact with game designers and jump right into live board game demonstrations without the usual convention bottlenecks.

Want a free game? Smirk & Dagger has you covered! Use the promo code SMIRK when buying your badge to slash $10 off your 4-Day Adult Badge. Better yet, if you are among the first 1,000 adult attendees to lock in your 4-day pass, you will receive a completely FREE copy of Boop the Halls!

📖 Claim your freebie: Read the details of this limited-time promotion in our Smirk & Dagger Games feature article.

25th Century Games: Fun, Accessible Board Games for All Ages

25th Century Games

Looking for gorgeous, engaging tabletop games for your next game night? Atlanta-based publisher 25th Century Games will be on the floor showing off their brilliant catalog of fun, accessible board games for all ages.

Expect to see beloved hits like Three Sisters, French Quarter, Green Team Wins, and the beautifully strategic Ra. Even better, convention whisperers hint that visitors to their booth might get an exclusive sneak peek at some highly anticipated future retail releases before anyone else!

📖 Explore the catalog: See what makes this local powerhouse so unique in our 25th Century Games preview article.

Chaosium Inc. Makes an Epic Board Game Debut

Chaosium Board Games

While they are globally legendary for their award-winning TTRPGs, Chaosium Inc. is making an epic debut at LUG CON 2026 with a special focus on their phenomenal new board games!

Step into their dedicated demo zones to test-drive highly anticipated tabletop titles like Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game and Miskatonic Tales: Journey to Innsmouth. If you are a fan of cosmic horror, immersive storytelling, and mythic tabletop gaming, you absolutely cannot miss pulling up a chair at their tables.

📖 Uncover the mythos: Read more about their legendary history and convention plans in our Chaosium Inc. partnership announcement.

More Spooky Board Game Fun with One Board Family!

Since October is the season for all things eerie, we are actively working behind the scenes to bring even more seasonal thrills to your tabletop! We are currently working to finalize some more spooky board game fun with our friends at One Board Family. Stay tuned for more announcements as we lock in the perfect Halloween-season tabletop events to round out the convention!

Can’t Wait Until October for Tabletop Fun?

If October feels just a little too long to wait to get your hands on premium cardboard, we have the perfect fix! Come visit us at Level Up Games before the convention to explore our massive, extensive board game collection. Whether you are looking to buy a new staple for your shelf or want a welcoming place to play this weekend, we have everything you need to keep the dice rolling.

Secure Your LUG CON 2026 Badges Today!

The tabletop hype is real, and spaces at the gaming tables are going to be at a premium. Don’t miss out on the biggest October board game event of the year.

Smirk Deal Badges

Gather your gaming group, plan your strategy, and click here to buy your LUG CON 2026 badges on Tabletop.Events before they sell out! (And don’t forget to use that SMIRK code at checkout for your discount and free game!)

LUG CON 2026 Fantasy Market Wondrous and Whimsical Curiousities Await!

Announcing a Step Into the Extraordinary: Discover the Wondurous and Whimsical Curiousities of the LUG CON 2026 Fantasy Market in October!

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LUG Con 2026 Featured Exhibitors for Fantasy Market. Logos

Calling all adventurers, dice goblins, cosplayers, and seekers of the extraordinary! LUG CON 2026 is arriving this October, and with it comes the debut of our highly anticipated Fantasy Market.

If you are tired of the same old manufactured merchandise and want to unearth rare, imaginative treasures you won’t find anywhere else in the mundane world, this bazaar is your ultimate destination. We’ve gathered an elite guild of creators—from masterwork leather smiths and alchemical woodworkers to metal weavers and mystical artisans—to bring you a shopping experience straight out of a high-fantasy tavern loot haul.

Ready your gold pieces and prepare your inventory bags. Here is your official look at the featured exhibitors bringing their legendary crafts to the LUG CON 2026 Fantasy Market!

Meet Our Featured Fantasy Market Exhibitors

Solhest Leather Goods

Looking to upgrade your Renaissance faire kit or elevate your next cosplay? Make a beeline for the burgundy and gold tent to discover Solhest Leather Goods. Founded in 2019 by Sara—a passionate leather crafter, equestrian, and Ren faire enthusiast based in northeast Georgia—Solhest transforms high-quality hides into stunning, functional art. Her spectacular product line includes faire favorites like teacup holsters, book holsters, versatile belt pouches, pirate hats, and custom leather armor elements.

HomeMakers

Bring a touch of cozy tavern magic into your daily life with HomeMakers. This talented married duo hand-carves exquisite wooden utensils and unique homegoods right from their home base near Athens, GA. Every single piece they create is completely distinct, highly durable, and designed to make everyday rituals feel like a fantasy quest. Whether you need an enchanted kitchen upgrade or a thoughtful gift for your campaign master, their booth is an absolute must-visit.

Volinar’s Workshop

Attention, tabletop RPG players! Welcome to Volinar’s Workshop, the ultimate haven for even the most discerning of dice goblins. They specialize in handmade wooden dice boxes and premium tabletop gaming accessories built to last a lifetime of critical rolls. Because adventuring is hungry work, you can also browse their custom wooden spoons, “nom wands,” and chopsticks. While you’re there, make sure to “dress for damage” by browsing Trinket’s selection of stunning dice and fantasy-themed jewelry. May you always roll with advantage!

J & E Crafts

Witness the beauty of raw materials transformed by pure artistry at J & E Crafts. This dynamic mother-and-son duo bends, twists, weaves, stamps, and melts raw metal to create breathtaking, intricate jewelry and statement accessories. If you love wearable art that tells a story of dedication and old-world craftsmanship, their collection of metalwork will cast an immediate spell on you.

Dan the Lefty Leather Works

For rugged, high-quality leather craftsmanship that breathes life into your favorite fantasy characters, visit Dan the Lefty Leather Works. Dan is a master craftsman selling a fantastic variety of handmade leather goods. His inventory features everything a fantasy traveler needs to survive the trail: custom shields, durable belts, pouches, hats, costume pieces, and uniquely crafted leather dice bags to protect your luckiest polyhedrals.

The Ember Cottage

Step into a realm where art, magic, and healing collide at The Ember Cottage. Inspired by Ember—a mythical dragon, familiar, and spirit guide representing moss and flame—this booth serves as a physical manifestation of pure creativity. The artist breathes inspiration into hidden beauty, gathering stories, images, and feelings to create mesmerizing pieces that carry a sense of protective tenderness and magical wonder.

TK Eyecatcher

If you hear a whispering booth of magic and memory calling out to you from across the convention floor, you’ve found TK Eyecatcher. Specializing in items where “bones once wandered, stones once slept, and branches once swayed,” this artist creates deeply resonant jewelry from bones, stones, shells, and raw natural materials. Adorn yourself in the old ways with their brass, pewter, and wood pendants, antler and horn rings, or take home wooden key hangers and beautifully crafted wooden bookmarks.

Even More Magic Awaits…

The excitement doesn’t stop here! Our Fantasy Market is packed to the brim with extraordinary talent. If you missed our previous artist announcements, be sure to catch up on the rest of our magical community:

Join Us This October!

Whether you are hunting for the perfect piece of custom cosplay gear, updating your tabletop gaming setup with masterwork accessories, or looking for whimsical curiosities to adorn your home, the LUG CON 2026 Fantasy Market is the place to be. Support independent makers, meet the artists behind the magic, and take home a piece of the extraordinary.

Are you ready for the ultimate geek culture convention shopping experience? Secure your tickets for LUG CON 2026 today, and we’ll see you in the market bazaar this October!

LUG Con Fantasy Market Wares
Looking for the best tabletop games at LUG Con? Visit Atlanta-based publisher 25th Century Games at LUG Con to experience their brilliant 2025 releases and exclusive 2026 sneak peeks!

Announcing 25th Century Games at LUG CON 2026: Fun, Accessible Board Games for All Ages

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Announcing 25th Century Games at LUG CON 2026: Fun, Accessible Board Games for All Ages 

Tabletop gaming conventions are all about discovery, community, and finding that next perfect game to bring to your table. If you are fine-tuning your itinerary for the upcoming convention, there is one booth you absolutely cannot afford to skip. Get ready to experience 25th Century Games at LUG Con, where out-of-this-world entertainment meets accessible, gorgeous design.

Based in Atlanta, Georgia, 25th Century Games publishes elegant and accessible board games for players of all ages, with a catalog celebrated for its strong design, artistic quality, and approachable gameplay. Whether you are a seasoned strategist or looking for a fun activity for family game night, their lineup has something special waiting for you.

Here is a look at what you can expect from 25th Century Games at LUG Con this year and why their booth should be at the very top of your must-visit list.

What to Expect from 25th Century Games at LUG Con

The core mission of this dynamic publisher is delightfully simple: to create out-of-this-world entertaining tabletop games and puzzles that bring people together. At a bustling convention like LUG Con, that mission comes to life perfectly.

When you visit 25th Century Games at LUG Con, you will step into a space dedicated to shared experiences, laughter, and high-quality gaming. The team will be hosting live demos, giving attendees a hands-on look at what makes their catalog so uniquely celebrated in the board gaming community.

25th Century Party Games

board gaming community.

Explore Classic Hits and New Releases

If you love staying on the cutting edge of the hobby, you are in for a treat. The publisher will be featuring most of their popular 2025 releases at the booth. This is your premier chance to table recent hits like their acclaimed roll-and-write series (including Three Sisters and French Quarter), the universally loved party game Green Team Wins, and stunningly beautiful strategy titles like Color Field and Ra.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Attendees whispering around the convention floor are already buzzing about the potential for future hot releases. Visitors to 25th Century Games at LUG Con might also get an exclusive look at some highly anticipated 2026 releases. Getting early eyes on prototypes or upcoming retail launches is one of the best parts of attending conventions, and this booth promises to deliver on that hype.

Tabletop Games and Puzzles That Bring People Together

Beyond their award-winning board games, the Atlanta, Georgia team is also well-known for producing magnificent jigsaw puzzles. Reflecting their eye for high artistic quality, their puzzles—such as the historically charming 1892 Bird’s Eye Map of Atlanta Puzzle—are built to offer an engaging, tactile experience that the whole family can enjoy side-by-side.

Whether it’s a competitive auction game or a collaborative puzzle, everything they showcase is built on approachable gameplay. You won’t have to spend hours reading dense rulebooks to start having fun; instead, you’ll be diving straight into the action with games that prioritize smooth mechanics and beautiful aesthetics.

Plan Your Visit to the Booth!

Conventions fly by in a flash, so make sure you plan your floor route carefully. If you want to experience incredible artwork, unforgettable gameplay, and a team dedicated to bringing people together, make sure you spend some time with 25th Century Games at LUG Con. Come pull up a chair, roll some dice, and find your next favorite tabletop addition.

Can’t wait until the convention to see what they have in store? Head over to the official 25th Century Games Website to browse their full catalog of tabletop games and puzzles today!

🛑 Don’t Wait until the Show Floor Fills Up! High-quality tabletop gaming is waiting for you. Buy your LUG Con badge now to ensure you get a seat at the table with 25th Century Games at LUG Con 2026!

9th Level Games logo and featured exhibitor banner for LUG Con, highlighting indie TTRPGs.

Featured Exhibitor Spotlight: From Wasteland Mayhem to Bird Crime: Discover 9th Level Games at LUG CON 2026 in October

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The countdown to LUG Con is officially on, and we are thrilled to introduce one of this year’s must-visit featured exhibitors: 9th Level Games!

If you love indie TTRPGs, hilarious storytelling, and getting straight to the action without flipping through five-hundred-page rulebooks, 9th Level Games needs to be at the absolute top of your LUG Con itinerary.

With a core mission to get more people playing tabletop RPGs through fast, simple rules, 9th Level Games creates experiences that perfectly suit new adventurers, old-school grognards, busy families, and everyone in between.

Here is a sneak peek at the incredible game lines and upcoming releases you’ll be able to explore at their booth this year!

Mazes, Kobolds Ate My Baby, and Thunder Road Fantasy Roleplaying book cover by 9th Level Games

Meet the Flagships: Mazes and Kobolds Ate My Baby!

Every great publisher has its crown jewels, and 9th Level Games boasts two legendary flagship lines that showcase the absolute best of indie TTRPG design.

First up is Mazes Fantasy Roleplaying, a modern take on the classic dungeon crawl. Powered by 9th Level’s award-winning, proprietary polymorph™ rules system, Mazes is elegant, fast-paced, and incredibly narrative-driven. It redefines the traditional fantasy RPG experience, making it the perfect gateway for beginners and a breath of fresh air for veterans.

On the completely opposite end of the tonal spectrum lies the cult-classic Kobolds Ate My Baby! If you’ve ever wanted to play a chaotic, poorly behaved, utterly hilarious little creature whose main goal is to avoid being eaten while causing absolute mayhem, this is the game for you. It’s loud, it’s fast, and it’s an absolute staple for pick-up games and laugh-out-loud one-shots.

Both of these flagships run on the polymorph™ system, which is specifically engineered to get your gaming group away from character creation and straight into a thrilling 2-to-3-hour session.

Right Now’s Main Feature: Thunder Road Vendetta RPG

If post-apocalyptic vehicular mayhem is your jam, you’re in luck. 9th Level Games’ massive current feature is the Thunder Road Vendetta RPG.

Based on the hit, high-octane board game, this RPG adaptation turns up the heat. Players can design their own custom post-apocalyptic road warriors, trick out death-defying rigs, and shoot, smash, and race their way across a desolate wasteland. It captures all the chaotic fun of the board game but infuses it with deep, fast-rolling roleplaying mechanics. Stop by the 9th Level booth at LUG Con to see it in action!

Releasing Soon & Crowdfunding This Summer!

9th Level Games isn’t just bringing their current hits to LUG Con—they are giving us a massive look into the future of their release schedule with two highly anticipated titles.

WrastlVania: Symphony of the Fight

Ever wondered what happens when you combine the gothic, exploration-heavy vibes of a classic side-scrolling video game with the high-flying, theatrical drama of professional wrestling? You get WrastlVania: Symphony of the Fight. Releasing soon, this game promises heavy body slams, eerie castles, and unforgettable tag-team action.

Portland Oregon Trail (Launching on BackerKit this August!)

Coming to BackerKit this August, 9th Level Games is putting a brilliant, localized, modern twist on a nostalgic classic with Portland Oregon Trail. Will your party survive the grueling journey across hipster territory, or will you succumb to a lack of cold-brew coffee? You can sign up for the launch party right now to ensure you don’t miss out on day-one backer rewards!

From Dungeon Crawls to Bird Crime: A Game for Everyone

What makes 9th Level Games such a perfect addition to LUG Con is their sheer variety. Because the polymorph™ rules system is so adaptable, they’ve built worlds across every genre imaginable.

Whether you want to dive into a dark fantasy dungeon, pilot a regency-era robot, fall in love on a swashbuckling pirate ship, play a Saturday morning cartoon hero, or simply team up with your friends to commit a little bit of “bird crime,” they have a game tailored to your exact mood.

Visit 9th Level Games at LUG Con!

Whether you are looking for your next epic campaign, a fast game to play with the kids, or a chance to commit some literal “bird crime,” 9th Level Games has something to spark your imagination.

Make sure to swing by the 9th Level Games booth at LUG Con to chat with the creators, grab exclusive merch, and check out the Thunder Road Vendetta RPG in person!

Don’t have your tickets yet? Badges are selling fast, and you won’t want to miss a single minute of the tabletop action. Click here to buy your LUG Con badge now, and we’ll see you at the table!

Can’t wait for the con? Check out the 9th Level Games website and follow their upcoming crowdfunding campaigns on BackerKit!

Step Into the Fantasy Market: Side Quests Await at the Wandrring Bazaar!

Announcing Adventure: Discover the Wandrring Bazaar at LUG Con’s Fantasy Market in October!

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Are you ready to level up your convention experience? When LUG Con 2026 takes over the Gas South Convention Center, it won’t just be about sitting at a table to play your favorite board games and TTRPGs. This year, we are bringing the magic of your favorite fantasy worlds right onto the convention floor with a brand-new feature making its grand debut this year: the Fantasy Market!

We are thrilled to announce one of the centerpiece exhibitors of this new marketplace: the Wandrring Bazaar, brought to life by the incredibly creative minds at The Hourglass Gauntlet. If you are looking for an immersive adventure to make your weekend truly legendary, this is one stop you absolutely cannot miss.

Discover the Wandrring Bazaar at LUG Con’s Fantasy Market

Welcome to the Fantasy Market

Far more than a standard vendor hall, the LUG Con Fantasy Market is a fresh addition to our lineup, designed to feel like a bustling, living marketplace straight out of a high-fantasy RPG. Acting as a central hub for tabletop gamers, cosplayers, and role-players alike, it’s the perfect place to lose yourself in the atmosphere.

Whether you are a weary traveler needing a short rest or a bold adventurer looking to upgrade your inventory, the Wandrring Bazaar will be fully stocked with handcrafted wares, unique accessories, and immersive supplies to help you tackle the weekend in style.

Ready for Some Side Quests?

What’s a trip to a fantasy market without a little adventure? The crew at The Hourglass Gauntlet isn’t just selling incredible gear. They’ve also planned quests exclusively for LUG Con attendees!

When you visit the Wandrring Bazaar, you can interact with the merchants to pick up real-time challenges. These side quests will have you exploring the convention floor, interacting with the community, and turning your standard con weekend into a live-action campaign. Complete the tasks, and who knows what rewards might await you!

How to jump into the action:

  • Locate the Bazaar: Head into the heart of the new LUG Con Fantasy Market.

  • Gear Up: Browse their unique supplies to ensure your inventory is ready for the journey.

  • Accept Your Quest: The Hourglass Gauntlet will be on site to convey your official convention objectives!

Follow the Adventure Before LUG Con

Don’t wait until the convention doors open to start your journey! You can get a sneak peek at the incredible craftsmanship, gear, and cosplay magic behind the Wandrring Bazaar by following The Hourglass Gauntlet online.

Check out their Linktree to see their latest projects, follow their social updates, and prepare your coin purses for the ultimate shopping and questing experience: 🔗 Explore The Hourglass Gauntlet Linktree

Secure Your Adventure Pass Today!

The Wandrring Bazaar and our brand-new Fantasy Market are just a fraction of the massive events, tournaments, and experiences waiting for you at the Southeast’s premier tabletop gaming convention.

Grab your party, roll for initiative, and head over to the official registration page to get your LUG Con badges today. We’ll see you at the Bazaar!

'Dragon Eye' at LUG Con’s New Fantasy Market

Unleash the Magic: Meet Dragon Eye at LUG Con’s Brand-New Fantasy Market in October!

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The countdown to LUG Con is officially on, and we are bursting with excitement to share a major addition to this year’s convention lineup. If you appreciate fine craftsmanship, unique wearable art, and the dedication it takes to bring mythical beasts to life, you are in for a massive treat.

This year, we are debuting our brand-new Fantasy Market, a curated space dedicated entirely to independent creators and high-caliber artisans. To celebrate, we are shining a spotlight on a spectacular featured exhibitor joining us straight from the renaissance festival circuit: the master painters at Dragon Eye.

The Artistry Behind the Gaze

If you’ve ever wandered through a renaissance festival, you know that true artisan craft is all about the details. Dragon Eye elevates this philosophy by specializing in the mesmerizing, highly detailed art of hand-painted glass dragon eyes.

This isn’t mass-produced merchandise; it is fine art on a miniature scale. Every single eye is painstakingly painted by hand on the reverse side of smooth glass spheres. The artists use layered brush techniques to capture depth, shifting light, and vibrant color dimensions, ensuring that no two beasts’ gazes are ever identical. When you look into one of these eyes, you are looking directly at hours of focused, passionate brushwork.

Want to follow the artist’s journey? You don’t have to wait until the convention to marvel at these creations. Connect with them, see behind-the-scenes updates, and view their stunning portfolio directly on Facebook by visiting the official Dragon Eye Facebook Page.

Dragon Eye exhibitor necklace

Wearable Art and Handcrafted Treasures

The beauty of Dragon Eye’s work is how they transform these stunning painted pieces into functional, everyday treasures. At the LUG Con Fantasy Market, you’ll be able to browse a gallery of their signature handcrafted products:

  • Hand-Painted Dragon Eye Necklaces: Statement jewelry pieces where the glass eye is securely set into beautiful, fantasy-inspired metalwork. It’s like carrying a piece of a mythical creature’s soul with you wherever you go.

  • Monster-Themed Keepsake Boxes: The perfect marriage of sculpture and painting. These detailed wooden boxes feature striking dragon eyes embedded right into the lids, creating a watchful guardian for your tabletop dice, jewelry, or rare cards.

  • Mythical Dragon Eye Magnets: Bring a touch of the renaissance festival aesthetic into your home, office, or gaming room with heavy-duty, artist-made magnets.

Support Independent Artists at the Fantasy Market

The addition of the Fantasy Market marks an exciting new chapter for LUG Con. We wanted to create a space that moves away from the commercial and leans heavily into the creative, giving a platform to exceptional makers who pour their hearts into their trade.

Be sure to stop by the Dragon Eye booth, chat with the creators about their painting process, and take home a truly unique piece of fantasy art.

Secure Your Entry: Buy Your LUG Con Badges Today!

Spaces in our new Fantasy Market are filling up fast, and badges are selling quickly! Don’t miss your chance to see Dragon Eye’s hypnotic glass art in person, alongside dozens of other incredible vendors, creators, and events.

Plan Your Visit:

LUG Con featured exhibitor KennyCon

Announcing Featured Exhibitor KennyCon: Bringing Georgia’s Friendliest Board Game Event to LUG Con 2026 in October!

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Are you ready for an unforgettable season of tabletop gaming? The LUG Con team is absolutely thrilled to announce our major partnership and spotlight our LUG Con featured exhibitor KennyCon for this October!

If you are a part of the Metro Atlanta board game community, chances are you already know KennyCon by its well-earned reputation as “Georgia’s Friendliest Board Game Convention.” This coming winter, they will be hosting their massive annual flagship event in West Cobb County (Marietta, GA). But you don’t have to wait until next year to experience the magic, and you don’t even have to wait until October! The KennyCon crew is dropping an incredible lineup of local tabletop gaming events starting late this summer.

LUG Con featured exhibitor KennyCon Crew

First Stop: Mini-KennyCon Kicks Off the Fun in September!

Before they even hit the LUG Con exhibition floor, you can get a direct taste of this amazing community at Mini-KennyCon this September!

Think of Mini-KennyCon as the perfect, high-energy preview of their main event. It is a dedicated 1-day gaming convention packing a massive 12 hours of non-stop tabletop fun into a single Saturday. It’s casual, incredibly welcoming, and the ultimate way to meet new local players, clear off your shelf-backlog, and dive into a full day of open gaming without taking up your whole weekend.

Why Everyone Loves the Full KennyCon Experience

Whether you meet them at Mini-KennyCon in September or check out their showcase at LUG Con in October, you’ll quickly see why their flagship two-day tabletop gaming event every January is a must-attend tradition.

When you join their community in West Cobb, your badge gets you access to an absolute gamer’s paradise:

  • A Massive 400+ Game Library: From deep strategic euro games and classic tabletop favorites to the newest hot releases, their library has something for every player.
  • Play-to-Win Tournaments & Door Prizes: Play featured board games for a chance to win copies to take home to your own shelf!
  • The Saturday Flea Market: The perfect place to buy, sell, or trade games to clear out your collection and find rare, out-of-print treasures.
  • Free Pizza & Great Perks: They keep you fueled with free pizza on Friday night, snacks, drinks, and entirely free parking all weekend long.

It’s more than just a convention; it’s a tight-knit community where you can always find a friendly face willing to sit down and teach you a brand-new game.

LUG Con featured exhibitor KennyCon Crowd

Spotlighting “Buzzworthy Games by KennyCon” at LUG Con

When our LUG Con featured exhibitor KennyCon sets up shop with us this October, they aren’t just coming to say hello. They are sponsoring the highly anticipated Buzzworthy Games by KennyCon section!

Inside this dedicated zone, KennyCon will be showcasing 4 amazing tabletop games. The exact titles are currently locked away in a high-security vault, but trust us when we say they are absolute showstoppers that you will want to get to the table immediately. Stay tuned to our social media channels and upcoming newsletters as we reveal the official game titles closer to October!

Whether you are a seasoned heavy-strategy veteran or a casual player looking for a fun party game, the KennyCon crew will be on hand at LUG Con to teach rules, run sessions, and welcome you into the fold.

Mark Your Calendars: The Ultimate Autumn-to-Winter Gaming Roadmap

This partnership is a massive win for Georgia gamers, giving you an entire roadmap of incredible tabletop events to look forward to over the next few months:

  • September: Get warmed up at Mini-KennyCon, the epic 1-day, 12-hour gaming convention in Marietta.

  • October: See them live on the convention floor at LUG Con to test out the mysterious Buzzworthy Games by KennyCon lineup!

  • January: Dive into the full flagship experience at KennyCon in West Cobb County (featuring 2 full days of gaming, a 400+ game library, organized play, and that legendary free pizza).

Be get your LUG Con badge and sure to stop by their booth at LUG Con to meet their amazing team, try out the featured games, and learn how to secure your badges for their upcoming events. You can also head over to the official KennyCon Website right now to grab your tickets for September and see why they are the friendliest convention in the state.

It's Official: Allen Panakal Art is coming to LUG Con 2026!

Announcing: LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist Allen Panakal at Level Up Games Buford The Weekend!

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The exciting road to Atlanta’s premier tabletop gaming convention is officially underway, and we are kicking things off with an incredible chance for you to meet one of this year’s most innovative creators.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce Allen Panakal as a LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist! If you want to get an early sneak peek at his mind-bending artwork, grab some signed gear, or just chat about sci-fi and fantasy worldbuilding, you don’t have to wait until October. Allen will be live and in-person this weekend, Saturday, June 13, at the massive Level Up Games Buford Grand Opening! He’ll be hosting a booth from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, so come out, celebrate the new store, and say hello.

LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist Allen Panakal promotional banner
Meet our featured artist Allen Panakal in Buford this weekend!

Discover the “Fracturism” Art of Our LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist

If you haven’t experienced Allen’s work yet, you are in for a visual treat. He is the brilliant artist and writer behind Ancient Ones, an award-winning series that he describes as a space opera heavily mixed with fantasy elements, think Star Wars meets Lord of the Rings.

What makes this LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist stand out is a unique, signature aesthetic known as “fracturism” (short for fractured impressionistic realism) or “Cyber Impressionism.” By blending his deep roots in graffiti and graphic design with a massive love for synthwave, outrun culture, vibrant colors, and bold geometric shapes, Allen builds breathtaking sci-fi worlds in a way you’ve genuinely never seen before.

racturism and Cyber Impressionism sci-fi art by Allen Panakal
A look into the vibrant, geometric world of the Ancient Ones series.

The Road Leads to LUG Con 2026 Tabletop Gaming Convention

Meeting Allen this weekend is just a small taste of the massive tabletop experience we are building for the fall. Mark your calendars, grab your badges, and get ready for the ultimate tabletop getaway in Georgia:

  • 📅 Dates: October 1–4, 2026
  • 📍 Location: Gas South Convention Center in Duluth, GA

LUG Con 2026 is Atlanta’s ultimate four-day tabletop gaming convention, and we are packing every single inch of the venue with pure gaming joy. Whether you are a casual board gamer, a hardened TCG competitor, a miniature wargamer, or an RPG roleplayer, this is your portal to adventure.

What to Expect at the Convention:

  • A Massive Vendor Hall: Browse rows of incredible creators, publishers, and indie designers, including an expanded exhibition booth from our LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist, Allen Panakal!
  • Endless Tabletop Games to Play: From massive miniature armies clashing on beautiful terrain to cozy indie board games and epic D&D dungeons run by expert Game Masters, there are thousands of games to play.
  • A True Gaming Community: We’ve invited publishers and designers from all over the country so you can escape the mundane, spark some joy, and share a table with gamers of all ages and experience levels.
Ancient Ones booth in vendor hall
Escape the mundane and find Allen’s LUG Con table at the Gas South Convention Center this October.

See You This Weekend in Buford!

Come help us celebrate the grand opening of Level Up Games Buford this Saturday, June 13, connect with our LUG Con 2026 Featured Artist between 11 AM and 3 PM, and let’s start the countdown to October.

👉 Head over to LUGCon.com right now to secure your convention badges, check out hotel blocks, and join the adventure! To explore more of Allen’s incredible universe ahead of time, check out his work at AncientOnes.net.

Booth of Smirk and Dagger a Featured Exhibitor at LUG Con 2026

Spotlight on LUG Con 2026 Featured Exhibitor Smirk & Dagger Games! Get a Free Game!

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Tabletop fans, get ready! LUG Con 2026 is right around the corner, taking over the Gas South Convention Center in Duluth from October 1-4.

This year, our vendor hall is going to be absolutely packed with incredible sights, must-have gear, and passionate creators. Whether you are looking to dive into epic narratives in Tabletop Roleplaying Games (TTRPGs), command armies in tactical Miniature Games, or duel in high-stakes Trading Card Games (TCGs), there is so much to see and so many games to play.

Standing right at the heart of the action this year is our premier partner and LUG Con 2026 Featured Vendor: Smirk & Dagger Games!

Smirk and Dagger Games logo - LUG Con 2026 Featured Vendor
Smirk and Dagger Games: A LUG Con 2026 Featured Exhibitor

About Smirk & Dagger Games: Play a Game, Create a Stir

For over 20 years, Smirk & Dagger has been a cornerstone of the gaming community, proudly publishing memorable board games since 2003. Founded by Curt Covert, this family-run business designs games with a simple but powerful premise: games are at their best when they engage both the heart and the mind, making the plastic and cardboard fade away into a cinematic experience.

Smirk & Dagger is famous for perfecting “social play” and masterfully balancing cutthroat, backstabbing strategy with whimsical, laugh-out-loud fun. Whether you love the devious machinations of their classic line or the clever, “thinky” puzzles of their Smirk & Laughter brand, their games ensure you’ll walk away from the table with stories you’ll remember for years to come. As a Georgia-based studio, they are helping us make this our most unforgettable and rewarding year yet.

Experience the “Direct Access Booth” Difference

As a LUG Con 2026 Featured Vendor, Smirk & Dagger Games will be hosting a premier Direct Access Booth in our exhibition hall.

What is a Direct Access Booth? Our Direct Access Booth program is a premium, high-visibility layout designed to bridge the gap between creators and players. Unlike standard setups, a Direct Access Booth features an open, highly accessible floor plan that eliminates traditional barriers. It allows attendees to walk right up, interact directly with game designers, easily view live demonstrations, and buy merchandise without getting trapped in bottleneck crowds.

For attendees, it means an immersive, hassle-free shopping and learning experience. For future vendors, it represents the gold standard of convention placement, maximizing foot traffic, fan engagement, and sales. Make sure to put Smirk & Dagger’s Direct Access Booth at the very top of your must-visit list!

The SMIRK Deal: $10 Off + A FREE Board Game!

To celebrate this amazing partnership, we’ve teamed up with our LUG Con 2026 Featured Vendor to bring you a massive early-bird promotion. If you haven’t bought your pass yet, now is the ultimate time to lock it in.

  • The Promo: Use discount code SMIRK at checkout to slash $10.00 OFF your 4-day Adult Badge.
  • The Freebie: The first 1,000 adult 4-day badges will receive a completely FREE copy of Boop the Halls!

Boop the Halls is Smirk & Dagger’s festive, highly acclaimed, and adorably “thinky” feline game from their Smirk & Laughter line. It’s the perfect addition to any gamer’s shelf, and it’s yours just for joining us for a full four days of tabletop celebration. (Note: If you’ve already purchased your 4-day pass, you are automatically qualified and your copy is already reserved for pickup at the event!)

Boop the Halls board game by LUG Con 2026 Featured Vendor Smirk and Dagger Games
Boop the Halls board game by LUG Con 2026 Featured Vendor Smirk and Dagger Games

Act Fast Before the Deal Disappears!

Don’t wait until the vendor hall opens to plan your weekend. The SMIRK discount code expires at midnight on July 31st, and those 1,000 free games will go fast.

Head over to our registration page to claim your badge, use code SMIRK, and secure your free game. To read all the fine print and specifics of the promotion, check out our full SMIRK Deal Article.

We can’t wait to see you this October at the Gas South Convention Center. Get ready to experience the future of tabletop conventions at our premier Featured Vendor Booths!

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