When and where is the Kapatik World Tattoo Expo?

The Kapatik World Tattoo Expo takes place January 10-11, 2026, at the IEC Convention Center Cebu (IC3) in Cebu City, Philippines. The venue is located in the Mandaue City area, approximately 20 minutes from Cebu City proper and accessible by taxi or ride-share services from Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

What happens at this event?

The convention features live tattooing by local and international artists, vendor booths selling supplies and merchandise, and tattoo competitions judged by established professionals. Attendees can book appointments with artists, watch demonstrations, or browse flash designs. Seminars for tattoo professionals run in separate rooms during the event.

How do I get tickets for the Kapatik World Tattoo Expo?

Tickets are available through the official website at https://kapatiktattoo.com/. The site offers single-day and weekend passes, with options for early bird pricing. You can purchase tickets online in advance or check for availability at the door, though advance purchase is recommended.

What should I bring or expect at the convention?

Bring a valid ID proving you are 18 or older if you plan to get tattooed. Cash is essential for deposits and merchandise, as not all vendors accept credit cards. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking on concrete floors. The venue has strong air conditioning, so bring a light jacket or hoodie.

Is this event good for first-time tattoo attendees?

Yes. The event welcomes first-time collectors who want to meet artists, view portfolios, and book small pieces or flash tattoos. The atmosphere is open to the public, and you can observe the process before committing. Artists are available for consultations to discuss design ideas and placement options.

Kapatik World Tattoo Expo

Name: Kapatik World Tattoo Expo
Start: 2026-01-10
End: 2026-01-11
Location: IEC Convention Center Cebu (IC3)

The Kapatik World Tattoo Expo is a two-day tattoo convention taking place January 10-11, 2026, at the IEC Convention Center Cebu (IC3) in Cebu City, Philippines. The event brings together tattoo artists, collectors, and vendors from across Southeast Asia for a weekend of live tattooing, art exhibitions, and industry networking. Cebu City sits at the heart of the Philippines' tattoo culture, bridging traditional Filipino tattooing methods with contemporary styles. While Manila often dominates the national conversation, Cebu has built its own reputation for hosting conventions that draw serious collectors and working artists from across the Visayas region. The IC3 venue is located in the Mandaue City area just north of downtown Cebu, offering air-conditioned exhibition halls with space for multiple tattoo stations, vendor booths, and seminar rooms. Attendees can expect to see live tattooing throughout both days, with artists taking appointments and walk-ups depending on their schedules. The convention floor includes booths from local Cebu studios, Manila-based artists, and international guests from Japan, Malaysia, and Europe. Vendor tables sell tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and clothing. The event includes tattoo competitions across multiple categories including black and grey, color, traditional, and small tattoos. These competitions run at scheduled times, usually Saturday and Sunday afternoons, with judging by established artists. Seminars and workshops take place in separate rooms for licensed professionals looking to expand their technical skills. Tickets are available through the official website at kapatiktattoo.com. Options typically include single-day and weekend passes. The venue offers parking on-site, though spaces fill quickly during peak hours. Nearby hotels include properties in Mandaue City and downtown Cebu, with many located within a short taxi ride from the venue. First-time convention attendees should bring cash for deposits and merchandise, as not all vendors accept cards. Wear comfortable shoes for concrete floors and bring a light jacket since the convention center air conditioning runs cold. The event is open to the public, though you must be eighteen or older to get tattooed on the convention floor.