Holiday Economic Development Gala

DARC's annual holiday gala brings Rockdale County and City of Conyers leadership, corporate partners and community stakeholders together at the Restoration Storehouse, the Authority-owned property at 1400 Parker Road SE that is being redeveloped as a hub for small business, workforce training and community service. The evening's menu is sourced from local food entrepreneurs. The Development Authority invests in these small businesses and gives them the opportunity to showcase their work in front of Rockdale County and City of Conyers leadership and the business community, making the gala a living example of our commitment to small business.

Our Mission

The 2026 Holiday Gala is about building something that lasts. Every partnership, conversation and dollar raised this evening serves one goal: growing the Restoration Storehouse into Rockdale County's home for small business, workforce training and community service. Small business is the engine of our local economy, so we put it at the center of the celebration, from the local chefs and caterers who serve our guests to the entrepreneurs we recognize on stage. And we bring our community partners together with county and city leadership in one room, building the relationships that turn shared vision into real investment.

Partnership in Progress is more than our theme. It is how Conyers-Rockdale grows.

Save the Date: 2026 Holiday Gala

Saturday, December 12, 2026 | Doors open 6:30 PM | Campus Tour 7:30 PM

Restoration Storehouse Center Campus, 1400 Parker Road SE, Conyers, GA 30094

Theme: Partnership in Progress: Building the Future of Conyers-Rockdale | Attire: Festive / Business Elegant

This year's program includes remarks from the Authority's leadership, a guided tour of the Restoration Storehouse previewing Phase II plans, recognition of small business owners, and spotlights on our local food vendors. Formal invitations with registration details will be sent in November.

2025: Connections That Build

On December 13, 2025, about 70 community leaders, elected officials, business owners and partners gathered for Rockdale's first Holiday Development Mixer at the Restoration Storehouse. Guests toured the campus, heard from Restoration Storehouse Director Dr. Robert Hughes, and celebrated the small business owners and community partners driving Rockdale's growth, including DC Blox, recognized as a top contributor. Featured local food vendors:

• AVA's – Another Veggy Addict
• Poogie's Southern Catering
• Tokyo of Conyers
• Sweet Georgia Brown's Catering

Thank you to everyone who joined us!