When and where is the Charlotte Tattoo Arts Convention?

The event is March 13-15, 2026 at The Park Expo & Conference Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The venue is located near Charlotte's NoDa arts district with parking available on site.

What happens at this convention?

The event includes live tattooing by guest artists, tattoo contests with cash prizes, and vendor booths selling tattoo supplies and merchandise. Artists work on pre-booked appointments and accept walk-ups when possible. The show runs from midday to evening on Friday and Saturday, with shorter hours on Sunday.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available through the official website at http://villainarts.com/. Villain Arts typically offers single-day passes and weekend passes. You can buy tickets online in advance or at the door, though online purchase is recommended to avoid lines.

What should I bring to the convention?

Bring a government-issued photo ID for age verification, as most conventions require attendees to be 18 or older. Bring cash for tips and small purchases, though many vendors accept cards. If you plan to get tattooed, eat beforehand and wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area you want tattooed.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The convention floor is open to the public and welcomes people who are new to tattoo conventions. You can walk around to watch artists work, browse portfolios, and talk to artists about booking future appointments without committing to getting tattooed that day.

Charlotte Tattoo Arts Convention #5 (2026)

Name: Charlotte Tattoo Arts Convention #5 (2026)
Start: 2026-03-13
End: 2026-03-15
Location: The Park Expo & Conference Center

The Charlotte Tattoo Arts Convention #5 is a three-day tattoo convention running March 13 through March 15, 2026. The event is at The Park Expo & Conference Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This is the fifth edition of the convention produced by Villain Arts. The show brings tattoo artists from across the United States and international guests to Charlotte's growing tattoo market. Charlotte has seen its tattoo community expand rapidly over the past decade as the city has grown into a major Southeastern center. Attendees can watch live tattooing on the convention floor. Artists work on appointments and walk-ups depending on their schedules. The event includes tattoo contests in categories like Best Traditional, Best Black and Grey, and Best of Show. Vendors sell tattoo equipment, supplies, and aftercare products. There are booths with jewelry, clothing, and art prints. The Park Expo & Conference Center offers ample space for the vendor floor and artist booths. The venue has parking available on site. Charlotte has hotels within driving distance of the venue, including options in the NoDa arts district and Uptown. Tickets are available through the Villain Arts website. Single-day and weekend passes are typically offered. The event runs from midday into the evening on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday hours usually shorter. Attendees should bring government-issued ID for age verification and cash for tips and purchases from vendors who may not accept cards. The convention draws artists from the Southeast region and beyond. Charlotte's tattoo scene includes strong traditional American work, Japanese-inspired pieces, and black-and-grey realism. The event gives local collectors access to artists they might otherwise travel to see in larger markets like Atlanta or Richmond. Afterparties typically happen at venues around Charlotte on Saturday night. The convention floor is open to the public and welcomes people new to tattoo conventions and those with multiple tattoos. Check the official Villain Arts website for the current guest artist list and ticket prices.