Minot Tattoo Expo (2026)

The Minot Tattoo Expo is a three-day tattoo convention held at the North Dakota State Fair Center in Minot, North Dakota. The 2026 event runs from May 15 to May 17, filling the exhibition hall with tattoo artists, vendors, and collectors from across the upper Midwest and Canada. The North Dakota State Fair Center sits on the southwest edge of Minot, a city known as the "Magic City" for its rapid growth during the railroad era. While North Dakota's tattoo scene is smaller than coastal cities, Minot has become a regional gathering point for collectors in the Dakotas and eastern Montana. The expo brings together local shops and traveling artists who work in American traditional, black and grey realism, and neo-traditional styles. Attendees can watch live tattooing throughout the weekend as artists take appointments and walk-ups. The floor includes vendor booths selling tattoo supplies, aftercare products, and apparel. Competitions usually run daily with categories for fresh tattoos, healed work, and flash art. Some artists offer same-day appointments, though most recommend booking ahead through the event's website or social media pages. The venue offers ample parking in the fairgrounds lots, with hotels available along Highway 2 and downtown Minot. The fair center has concrete floors and industrial lighting typical of exhibition halls, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Cash is useful for tips and small purchases, though most vendors accept cards. This is a mid-sized convention that draws a mix of first-time collectors and those with extensive work. The atmosphere is casual, with artists willing to discuss designs and portfolios. Food trucks or concession stands are typically available inside or near the hall.