When and where is Austin Tattoo Expo #6?

The event runs February 20-22, 2026 at the Austin Marriott South, located at 4415 South IH-35 in Austin, Texas. The venue is near Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, about 15 minutes from downtown Austin.

What happens at this event?

The expo features live tattooing on the convention floor, with artists working on clients throughout the weekend. There are vendor booths selling tattoo supplies and merchandise, daily competitions in categories like Best Black and Grey and Best Traditional, and opportunities to book appointments with guest artists.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available through the official website at https://www.inkmasterstattooshow.com/. The site offers single-day and weekend passes, along with updates on guest artists and scheduling changes.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring a valid ID, cash for tips and merchandise, and reference images if you plan to get tattooed. The hotel offers parking but spaces fill quickly on Saturday. Wear comfortable shoes as you will stand or walk on concrete floors for hours.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The layout is open and easy to navigate, and artists are available to discuss designs and pricing. First-timers can watch tattooing in progress, browse portfolios, and get small tattoos or consultations without pressure.

Austin Tattoo Expo #6

Name: Austin Tattoo Expo #6
Start: 2026-02-20
End: 2026-02-22
Location: Austin Marriott South

The Austin Tattoo Expo #6 is a three-day tattoo convention running February 20 through February 22, 2026 at the Austin Marriott South in Austin, Texas. This is the sixth edition of the show, which brings together tattoo artists, collectors, and vendors from across Texas and beyond. The event fills the Marriott's convention space with working tattoo stations where artists take appointments and walk-ups. Attendees can watch live tattooing throughout the weekend, from traditional American work to black and grey realism. The expo floor includes vendor booths selling tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and apparel. Competitions run daily in categories like Best Small Tattoo, Best Black and Grey, and Best of Show, with judging typically happening Sunday afternoon. Austin has a long history of tattoo culture tied to its music scene and the Keep Austin Weird movement. The city has produced notable traditional tattooers and neo-traditional artists, making this expo a reflection of local styles mixed with visiting talent from other regions. The Austin Marriott South sits near the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, about 15 minutes from downtown. Parking is available at the hotel, though spots fill quickly on Saturday. Several hotels sit along Interstate 35 near the venue, including the Marriott itself and budget options along the frontage road. Tickets are available through the official Ink Masters Tattoo Show website. Single-day and weekend passes are typically offered. The venue allows cameras, and many attendees bring reference materials if booking tattoos on site. Cash is useful for tips and merchandise, though most vendors accept cards.