When and where is Big Tattoo Meltdown #2?

The event takes place May 16-17, 2026 at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham in Nottingham, England. The venue is located near the city center with access to public transport and parking.

What happens at Big Tattoo Meltdown?

The convention features tattoo artists working live on the floor, vendor booths selling supplies and merchandise, and opportunities to book tattoo appointments. The second edition expands on the inaugural 2025 event with more space and artists.

How do I get tickets for Big Tattoo Meltdown #2?

Tickets are available through the official website at http://www.btmd.co.uk/. The site lists day tickets and weekend pass options along with current pricing.

What should I bring to Big Tattoo Meltdown?

Bring comfortable shoes for walking on the arena floor, cash for vendors, and reference images if you plan to get tattooed. The venue has food and drink concessions, though Nottingham city center restaurants sit nearby.

Is this event suitable for first-time convention attendees?

Yes. The layout at Motorpoint Arena is straightforward with clear signage, and the atmosphere is open to newcomers. First-timers can watch artists work, talk to vendors, and get a sense of the tattoo community without pressure to get tattooed.

Big Tattoo Meltdown #2

Name: Big Tattoo Meltdown #2
Start: 2026-05-16
End: 2026-05-17
Location: Motorpoint Arena Nottingham

Big Tattoo Meltdown #2 is a two-day tattoo convention taking place May 16-17, 2026 at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham in Nottingham, England. This is the second edition of the event, building on the inaugural 2025 show that established the convention as a fixture in the UK tattoo calendar. The event fills the Motorpoint Arena with tattoo artists working live on the convention floor. Attendees can walk the aisles to watch artists at work, book appointments for future sessions, or get tattooed on the spot if artists have availability. The convention floor includes vendor booths selling tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and related merchandise. Nottingham sits in the East Midlands and has supported independent tattoo studios for decades. The city has a strong tradition of street art and underground culture that feeds into its tattoo scene. The Motorpoint Arena location puts the event near Nottingham city center, close to hotels and transport links including the Nottingham train station. The first Big Tattoo Meltdown took place in 2025, making 2026 the second running of the show. Organizers have indicated the event will expand on the format of the first edition with more floor space and additional artists. Tickets are available through the official website at btmd.co.uk. Day tickets and weekend passes are typically offered for this type of event. The Motorpoint Arena has parking available on site, though spaces fill quickly during events. Several hotels sit within walking distance of the venue, including options along Nottingham's Canal Street and in the Lace Market district. Attendees should bring cash for vendors, though most accept cards. Wear comfortable shoes as the concrete arena floor is hard on feet during a full day of walking. Bring reference materials if you plan to get tattooed, and check the event's social media for announcements about guest artists and booth locations. The convention runs Saturday and Sunday, usually from late morning until early evening. Afterparties typically happen at nearby venues in Nottingham's city center, though specific locations depend on the year.