Costa Rica Expo Tattoo #11

Costa Rica Expo Tattoo #11 runs from January 30 to February 1, 2026, at Palacio de los Deportes in Heredia, Costa Rica. This is the 11th edition of the convention, which has grown from a small local gathering to one of Central America's established tattoo events. The event fills the indoor sports arena with tattoo stations, vendor booths, and art displays. Local Costa Rican artists work alongside international guests, offering everything from traditional Latin American designs to blackwork and realism. Attendees can watch live tattooing, browse equipment and supplies, or book appointments for later dates. Heredia sits in the Central Valley near San José, making it accessible from the capital and Juan Santamaría International Airport. The city maintains its own tattoo shops and culture, though many artists travel from San José's larger scene. Palacio de los Deportes provides covered exhibition space with parking available in the surrounding area. The convention includes tattoo competitions across categories like black and grey, color, and small tattoos. There are usually seminars for artists and afterparties at local venues, though specific schedules release closer to the dates. Tickets are available at the door or through local tattoo shops in the San José and Heredia area, with single-day and full-weekend options typically offered. Bring cash for deposits and merchandise, as not all vendors process cards. Wear comfortable shoes for concrete floors and bring a valid ID. January is dry season in Costa Rica, so expect warm days and cool evenings in the Central Valley.