When and where is the Gila Tattoo Expo 2026?

The Gila Tattoo Expo runs July 31 to August 2, 2026, at the Yuma Civic Center, located at 1440 West Desert Hills Drive in Yuma, Arizona. The venue is about 10 minutes from downtown Yuma and Interstate 8.

What happens at the Gila Tattoo Expo?

The event includes live tattooing on the convention floor, with artists taking appointments for walk-ups. Competitions run in categories like best sleeve, color work, and black-and-grey. Vendors sell tattoo equipment, ink, and aftercare products.

How do I buy tickets for the Gila Tattoo Expo?

Tickets are available through the official website at https://gilatattooexpo.com/. The site offers single-day and weekend passes. You must be 18 or older to attend.

What should I bring to the Gila Tattoo Expo?

Bring a government-issued photo ID for entry and for getting tattooed. Cash is useful for vendors, though many accept cards. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on concrete floors. The venue has air conditioning, but Yuma is hot in July and August, so dress for heat outside.

Is the Gila Tattoo Expo good for first-time tattoo clients?

Yes. The convention has a relaxed atmosphere with space to walk around and talk to artists before committing. You can review portfolios, discuss designs, and book appointments for tattoos during the event.

Gila Tattoo Expo (2026)

Name: Gila Tattoo Expo (2026)
Start: 2026-07-31
End: 2026-08-02
Location: Yuma Civic Center

The Gila Tattoo Expo is a three-day tattoo convention held July 31 through August 2, 2026, at the Yuma Civic Center in Yuma, Arizona. The event brings tattoo artists, collectors, and vendors to the southwest corner of the state for live tattooing, competitions, and equipment sales. Yuma sits about 20 miles from the California border and 10 miles from Mexico, with a tattoo scene that draws from desert imagery, Chicano art traditions, and military culture from nearby Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. The convention reflects this mix, with artists working in styles ranging from black-and-grey realism to traditional American and Japanese work. Attendees can watch live tattooing on the convention floor. Artists set up booths with their portfolios and equipment, taking appointments for tattoos during the event. Competitions run throughout the weekend in categories like best sleeve, color tattoo, black-and-grey, and small tattoo. A judging panel scores entries based on technical skill and composition. Vendor booths line the perimeter, selling tattoo machines, needles, ink, aftercare products, and apparel. Some artists travel from Phoenix, Tucson, San Diego, and Los Angeles to work at the show. The Yuma Civic Center offers parking on site at 1440 West Desert Hills Drive. Hotels are available along 4th Avenue and near Interstate 8, about 10 minutes from the venue. The building has air conditioning, which is necessary for Yuma in July and August when temperatures often exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Tickets are available online through the official website. Single-day and weekend passes are typically offered. The event is 18 and older. Attendees should bring government-issued photo ID for entry and for getting tattooed. First-time collectors can consult with artists about design ideas and placement. The atmosphere is casual compared to larger urban conventions, with more space to walk between booths and talk with artists.