When and where is the Maine Tattoo Arts Festival?

The 2026 Maine Tattoo Arts Festival takes place January 9-11 at Thompson's Point in Portland, Maine. Thompson's Point is located on the Fore River waterfront, about a ten-minute drive from downtown Portland. The venue has indoor exhibition halls that host the convention floor.

What happens at this event?

The festival includes live tattooing by artists working at booths, tattoo competitions in various style categories, and vendor booths selling supplies and aftercare products. Artists from across New England and other regions attend. The event runs Friday through Sunday with continuous activity on the convention floor.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available through the official Villain Arts website at villainarts.com. The event typically sells single-day passes and weekend passes. Prices vary by day and package. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the door if available.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring a photo ID, cash for tips and small purchases, and warm clothing for January weather in Maine. The venue is indoors and heated. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on concrete floors. Attendees often book hotel rooms in the Old Port area, which is a short drive from Thompson's Point.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The convention welcomes people who are new to tattoo events. You can walk the floor to look at portfolios, watch artists work, and talk to tattooers about future appointments. You do not need to get tattooed to attend. The atmosphere is casual and focused on the work rather than high-pressure sales.

Maine Tattoo Arts Festival #4

Name: Maine Tattoo Arts Festival #4
Start: 2026-01-09
End: 2026-01-11
Location: Thompson’s Point

The Maine Tattoo Arts Festival is a three-day tattoo convention held at Thompson's Point in Portland, Maine. The 2026 event runs from January 9 to January 11. This is the fourth edition of the festival, which brings tattoo artists and collectors to New England during the winter months. Thompson's Point sits on the Fore River waterfront in Portland. The venue is a converted industrial complex with indoor exhibition halls and outdoor areas. In January, the event operates entirely indoors due to Maine's cold weather. The space has high ceilings and concrete floors typical of former warehouse buildings, which works well for convention setup with rows of artist booths. The event includes live tattooing throughout the weekend. Artists work at their booths while attendees walk the floor. There are tattoo competitions in various categories, though specific judges and categories change each year. Vendor booths sell tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and related merchandise. The convention floor is open to the public with purchased admission. Portland has a compact but active tattoo community. The city has several established shops serving the local population and summer tourists. Portland's tattoo style tends toward traditional American and nautical themes, reflecting the city's working waterfront history. The convention draws artists from across New England and beyond, giving local collectors access to tattooers they might not otherwise see. Tickets are available through the Villain Arts website. The event typically offers single-day passes and full weekend passes. Parking is available at Thompson's Point, though spaces fill quickly. Attendees can also park in downtown Portland and take a short ride to the venue. Hotels in the Old Port district are about ten minutes away by car. Attendees should bring cash for booth purchases, though many vendors accept cards. The venue is heated but attendees often wear layers due to the January timing.