When and where is the New York Empire State Tattoo Expo 2026?

The 2026 expo runs from May 22 to May 24 at the New York Hilton Midtown, located at 1335 6th Avenue in Manhattan. The event takes place over Memorial Day weekend in the hotel's exhibition spaces.

What happens at the Empire State Tattoo Expo?

Artists tattoo clients live at their booths throughout the weekend. The event includes tattoo contests judged by category, vendor booths selling equipment and apparel, and opportunities to book future appointments with guest artists.

How do I get tickets for the 2026 event?

Tickets are available through the official website at http://www.empirestatetattooexpo.com/. The site offers single-day and weekend passes. Pricing and availability are updated closer to the event date.

What should I bring to the convention?

Bring a valid photo ID proving you are 18 or older. Cash is recommended for tips and small purchases. If you want to get tattooed, bring reference images and wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area you want tattooed.

Is this event suitable for first-time convention attendees?

Yes. The layout is straightforward, with clear signage and staff available to answer questions. First-timers can observe tattooing, talk to artists about their work, and get small tattoos without prior convention experience.

New York Empire State Tattoo Expo #11 (2026)

Name: New York Empire State Tattoo Expo #11 (2026)
Start: 2026-05-22
End: 2026-05-24
Location: New York Hilton Midtown

The New York Empire State Tattoo Expo is a three-day tattoo convention held May 22-24, 2026 at the New York Hilton Midtown in Manhattan. This is the 11th edition of the event, which brings tattoo artists and collectors together in the heart of Midtown over Memorial Day weekend. The convention takes place in the Hilton's ballroom and exhibition spaces on 6th Avenue. Artists set up booths to tattoo clients live on the convention floor. Attendees can walk the floor to watch tattooing in progress, browse flash sheets, and book appointments with artists from across the country and abroad. The event includes tattoo competitions with categories for different styles and body placements. Vendors sell tattoo supplies, aftercare products, clothing, and jewelry. New York City has a complex tattoo history. The city banned tattooing from 1961 to 1997, but since the ban lifted, the scene has grown significantly. The Empire State Expo reflects this history by mixing established New York artists with international guests. The Hilton Midtown location puts the event near major subway lines and within walking distance of Times Square and Central Park. Tickets are available through the official website. The event runs Friday through Sunday, typically from late morning until evening. Single-day and weekend passes are usually offered. The venue is accessible by subway via the 57th Street station. Parking in Midtown is expensive and limited; most attendees use public transit or rideshare. Nearby hotels fill up quickly during Memorial Day weekend, so booking accommodation early is recommended. Attendees should bring government-issued ID, as the event is 18+. Cash is useful for tips and small purchases, though most vendors accept cards. Bring reference images if you plan to get tattooed. The floor can get crowded, so comfortable shoes are practical.