When and where is Kings and Queens of Ink Tattoo Expo 2026?

The event runs June 19 through June 21, 2026 at the Mississippi Trade Mart, located at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson, Mississippi. The venue sits off Interstate 55 with parking available on-site.

What happens at this convention?

Artists tattoo clients live on the convention floor while vendors sell equipment, ink, and clothing. Daily contests judge tattoos in categories like black and grey and color work. Big Hoon from Sullen Clothing hosts the stage activities and competitions.

How do I get tickets?

Ticket information is available through the event's official social media pages and at the door on the day of the event. Advance purchase is recommended for weekend passes.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring a valid ID, cash for parking and tips, and comfortable clothing. The venue is air-conditioned but crowded. Water bottles and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking the concrete floors.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The layout is straightforward with clear signage, and the crowd includes many local first-timers alongside experienced collectors. Artists are available for consultations, and the atmosphere is casual.

Kings and Queens of Ink Tattoo Expo #4 (2026)

Name: Kings and Queens of Ink Tattoo Expo #4 (2026)
Start: 2026-06-19
End: 2026-06-21
Location: Mississippi Trade Mart

The Kings and Queens of Ink Tattoo Expo is a three-day convention held June 19 through June 21, 2026 at the Mississippi Trade Mart in Jackson, Mississippi. This is the fourth edition of the show, which has established itself as a fixture in the Southeast tattoo circuit since its first run. The event fills the Trade Mart floor with tattoo stations where artists work on clients throughout the weekend. Attendees can walk the aisles to watch live tattooing across multiple styles, from traditional Americana to black and grey realism. The vendor area supplies equipment, ink, apparel, and aftercare products from established distributors. Big Hoon from Sullen Clothing returns as host, running the stage and contest proceedings with the same energy that defined previous years. Competitions run daily with categories covering small black and grey, color pieces, and overall best of show. Artists submit fresh work done at the convention for judging by a panel of established professionals. The atmosphere is loud and busy, typical of a regional expo with heavy music and crowds gathering around popular booths to watch large-scale pieces take shape over several hours. Jackson sits in the middle of Mississippi, and the local scene reflects Southern tattoo traditions with strong representation of military and religious imagery alongside contemporary styles. Mississippi has strict tattoo regulations that require clean facilities and single-use needles, so the convention operates under professional standards that match or exceed state requirements. The Trade Mart location at the State Fairgrounds provides ample parking and sits just off Interstate 55, making it accessible from Memphis, New Orleans, and Birmingham within a few hours' drive. Tickets are available at the door or in advance through the event's social media channels. Single-day and weekend passes are typically offered, with prices varying by access level. Visitors should bring cash for parking and some vendors, though most artists accept cards for deposits. The venue is air-conditioned but crowded, so comfortable shoes and water bottles are practical choices. Several hotels line Interstate 55 near the Pearl River Valley, including major chains within ten minutes of the fairgrounds. The surrounding area has restaurants and gas stations convenient for out-of-town visitors.