When and where is Ascension Of Ink Tattoo Fest?

The event runs June 12 to June 14, 2026, at the Highlands Sports Complex in Triadelphia, West Virginia. The venue is located just off Interstate 70 near Wheeling in the northern panhandle of the state. Doors open daily with specific hours announced closer to the date on the event's social media pages.

What happens at this event?

The convention features live tattooing by emerging artists, tattoo competitions in categories like black and grey and color work, and live band performances. Vendor booths sell tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and body jewelry. Breaking Skin Tattoo organizes the event with a focus on younger artists building their client base in the Ohio Valley region.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available at the door during the event or in advance through the Ascension Of Ink Tattoo Fest Facebook page and Instagram account. Single-day and weekend passes are typically offered. Cash and card are usually accepted at the door, though bringing cash speeds up entry.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring a valid ID, cash for tips and vendors, and reference photos if you want a specific tattoo design. The Highlands Sports Complex has concession stands and parking on site. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be standing or walking on concrete floors for several hours.

Is this event good for first-time tattoo collectors?

Yes, the atmosphere is casual and focused on emerging artists who often have open availability for walk-up appointments. First-time collectors can watch artists work before committing, browse portfolios, and ask questions in a low-pressure environment. The event is smaller than major city conventions, making it easier to navigate for beginners.

Ascension Of Ink Tattoo Fest #1 (2026)

Name: Ascension Of Ink Tattoo Fest #1 (2026)
Start: 2026-06-12
End: 2026-06-14
Location: Highlands Sports Complex

Ascension Of Ink Tattoo Fest #1 runs from June 12 to June 14, 2026, at the Highlands Sports Complex in Triadelphia, West Virginia. Breaking Skin Tattoo and Body Piercing is organizing this first-year convention in the Ohio Valley region, drawing collectors and artists from West Virginia, eastern Ohio, and western Pennsylvania. The event fills the sports complex with tattoo stations where emerging artists work on clients throughout the weekend. Attendees walk between booths while artists compete in tattoo competitions across categories including black and grey work, color pieces, and small tattoos. Live bands play on a stage inside the venue during evening hours. Vendor tables line the perimeter selling tattoo supplies, aftercare products, apparel, and body jewelry. The atmosphere is casual and focused on younger artists building their portfolios and connecting with local clients. Highlands Sports Complex sits just off Interstate 70 in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, easily accessible from Wheeling, St. Clairsville, and Pittsburgh. The venue has paved parking lots on site that accommodate several hundred vehicles. Hotels are available in nearby Wheeling, about ten minutes east along Interstate 70, and in St. Clairsville, Ohio, fifteen minutes west. Some attendees stay in the Oglebay Resort area or at casino hotels in Wheeling. This is the first edition of the festival. Breaking Skin Tattoo has focused the lineup on up-and-coming artists rather than established headliners, giving newer professionals space to demonstrate their skills. Attendees can expect walk-up tattoo availability, though appointments with specific artists may be possible through Instagram or Facebook before the event. The competitions run both Saturday and Sunday with judging open to the public. Tickets are available at the door or in advance through the event's social media pages. General admission covers entry for single days or the full weekend. Bring cash for vendors and tips, as some smaller booths may not accept cards. The sports complex has concession stands, but local restaurants in Wheeling offer additional options after the event ends each evening. The venue is air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible. West Virginia has a growing tattoo community with established shops in Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington, and the Wheeling area. This convention adds to the region's calendar alongside larger shows in Pittsburgh and Columbus, offering a more intimate setting focused on emerging talent.