Atlanta Tattoo Arts Festival #9
The Atlanta Tattoo Arts Festival #9 is a three-day tattoo convention running March 6 through March 8, 2026, at AmericasMart Building 3 in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Produced by Villain Arts, a promoter that organizes tattoo conventions across the eastern United States, this event marks the ninth edition of the Atlanta gathering. The festival has established itself as a regular stop for tattoo collectors in the Southeast who want to see work from regional artists and guest tattooers from other parts of the country. The convention occupies the exhibition hall at AmericasMart Building 3, located at 75 John Portman Boulevard NW near Centennial Olympic Park. The floor plan includes rows of artist booths where tattooers work on clients throughout the weekend, plus a vendor area with suppliers selling tattoo machines, needles, inks, and aftercare products. Attendees can walk the aisles to watch tattoos being done in real time, book appointments with artists who have openings, or purchase artwork and merchandise. The event includes tattoo competitions with categories such as best sleeve, best portrait, best black and grey, and best small tattoo. Artists submit pieces done during the convention or brought from their portfolios, and judging typically occurs on Sunday afternoon. Seminars and workshops may also run during the weekend for licensed professionals looking to learn new techniques. Atlanta has a long history with tattoo culture, particularly in traditional American and black and grey styles. The city's scene has been influenced by Southern art traditions and the local hip-hop culture, creating a mix of classic tattooing and contemporary street art influences. The convention reflects this diversity, drawing established Georgia-based artists alongside traveling professionals. Doors open at 11:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, and at 12:00 PM on Sunday. Closing times are 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 8:00 PM on Sunday. Ticket options include single-day passes and full weekend passes, available through the Villain Arts website. Parking is available in the lots adjacent to AmericasMart, with additional garages within walking distance in the downtown area. Hotels near the venue include the Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center and the Hilton Atlanta. First-time attendees should bring a valid government-issued ID showing they are 18 or older, as this is the minimum age for entry. Cash is recommended for purchases and tips, as not all vendors accept credit cards. Those planning to get tattooed should bring clear reference materials and wear loose clothing that allows easy access to the area they want tattooed.