When and where is the Nicaragua Tattoo Convention 2026?

The 6th edition takes place June 13-14, 2026, at the Olof Palme Convention Center in Managua, Nicaragua. The venue is located in the Plaza España area near the Tiscapa Lagoon.

What happens at the Nicaragua Tattoo Convention?

The event features live tattooing stations where artists work on clients, tattoo competitions in various style categories, and vendor booths selling equipment and supplies. Artists from across Latin America and beyond attend to take appointments and showcase their work.

How do I get tickets for the Nicaragua Tattoo Convention?

Tickets are sold through the convention's official social media channels and at the door. Organizers typically release ticket information three months before the event date. Day passes and weekend passes are usually available.

What should I bring to the Nicaragua Tattoo Convention?

Bring cash in Nicaraguan córdobas or US dollars, as not all vendors accept cards. If you plan to get tattooed, bring reference images and deposit information for your chosen artist. The venue has parking available on site.

Is the Nicaragua Tattoo Convention good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The event is open to the public and welcomes visitors who want to observe tattooing, browse artist portfolios, or purchase merchandise. The atmosphere is casual, and attendees can watch competitions and walk through the vendor area without prior tattoo experience.

Nicaragua Tattoo Convention (2026)

Name: Nicaragua Tattoo Convention (2026)
Start: 2025-06-14
End: 2025-06-15
Location: Olof Palme Convention Center

The Nicaragua Tattoo Convention returns for its 6th edition on June 13 and 14, 2026, at the Olof Palme Convention Center in Managua. This two-day event is the primary tattoo gathering in Nicaragua and draws artists from across Central America, Mexico, Colombia, and the United States. The convention floor features live tattooing stations where artists work on scheduled appointments and walk-up clients. Attendees can watch the tattoo process up close as artists execute pieces ranging from small designs to full back pieces. A competition area hosts daily contests divided by style categories including black and gray realism, traditional, neo-traditional, and color work. Judges award prizes based on technical execution and artistic merit. The 2026 poster artwork references the Agüizotes of Masaya, a tradition involving masked figures that represent local legends and myths. Masaya is located approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Managua and holds an annual festival featuring these masked processions. The convention organizers have incorporated this imagery to connect the event with Nicaraguan folk culture. Managua's tattoo scene has grown from a small community of underground artists in the 1990s to a visible industry with established studios in neighborhoods like Bolonia, Metrocentro, and Carretera a Masaya. Local shops including Blood Brothers Tattoo and Black Rose Tattoo Studio have participated in previous conventions. The event provides a space for Nicaraguan artists to work alongside international guests and for local clients to book sessions with artists who do not normally travel to Central America. The Olof Palme Convention Center sits in the Plaza España district near the Tiscapa Lagoon. The venue offers indoor parking and is located near several hotels including the Crowne Plaza Managua and Hotel Mansión Teodolinda. The Augusto C. Sandino International Airport is approximately 20 minutes away by car. Taxi services and Uber operate in Managua, though visitors should confirm prices before departing. Tickets typically go on sale three months before the event through the convention's Facebook and Instagram pages. Organizers usually offer day passes and full weekend passes. The event runs from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Attendees should bring cash in Nicaraguan córdobas or US dollars, as some vendors do not accept credit cards. Equipment vendors sell needles, inks, and machines, while clothing and art vendors occupy the remaining booth space. Afterparties occur at local bars in the Zona Rosa and Galerías Santo Domingo areas, with specific venues announced during the event weekend.