When and where is Oahu Tattoo Expo #2?

The event runs January 16-18, 2026 at the Hawaii Event Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. The venue is located near downtown Honolulu with access to major hotels and public transportation along Kapiolani Boulevard.

What happens at this convention?

The expo features live tattooing throughout the day, vendor booths selling equipment and aftercare products, and tattoo competitions in categories like traditional and Polynesian work. Artists from Hawaii and the mainland US attend to take appointments and display portfolios.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available at the door for single days or the full weekend. Advance tickets may be available through the event's official channels. Check the event website for current pricing and availability.

What should I bring to Oahu Tattoo Expo #2?

Bring a valid ID, cash for tips and purchases, and reference images if you plan to get tattooed. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, as the convention floor can get warm with equipment running.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The layout is open and accessible, with clear signage and staff available to answer questions. First-timers can observe tattooing, talk to artists about designs, and learn about different styles without pressure to commit to work immediately.

Oahu Tattoo Expo #2

Name: Oahu Tattoo Expo #2
Start: 2026-01-16
End: 2026-01-18
Location: Hawaii Event Center

Oahu Tattoo Expo #2 is a three-day tattoo convention running January 16 through January 18, 2026 at the Hawaii Event Center in Honolulu. This is the second edition of the event, building on the inaugural expo that established a new gathering point for Hawaii's tattoo community and visiting artists from the mainland. The convention takes place at the Hawaii Event Center, located near downtown Honolulu with access to the city's hotel district and the Ala Moana shopping area. The venue provides open floor space for tattoo stations, vendor booths selling equipment and aftercare supplies, and seating areas where attendees can watch live tattooing. The building has air conditioning and paid parking available on site. The event brings together tattoo artists from across Hawaii and the continental United States. Attendees can walk the floor to watch tattoos being applied in real time, browse portfolios, and book appointments with artists who have availability. The expo includes tattoo competitions judged by working artists, with categories that include traditional, realism, black and grey, and Polynesian styles. These competitions reflect Honolulu's position at the crossroads of Pacific tattoo traditions and modern American styles. Honolulu has a long history with tattooing that predates the convention circuit. Native Hawaiian kakau uhi traditions involve hand-tapped geometric designs using bone tools and natural ink. Japanese immigrants brought irezumi techniques in the late 19th century, and the military presence during and after World War II established American traditional tattooing in the port city. Today's Honolulu scene includes artists working in all these traditions, plus contemporary styles like fine line and watercolor. Doors open at noon on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday hours typically ending earlier in the evening. Single-day and weekend passes are available. The Hawaii Event Center has a parking structure with hourly rates, and additional public lots are located along Ward Avenue and Kapiolani Boulevard. Hotels in the Ala Moana and Waikiki neighborhoods are within a 10-minute drive or bus ride. Attendees should bring government-issued ID, cash for tips and merchandise, and printed reference images if planning to get tattooed. The convention floor gets warm with equipment running, so dress in layers.