When and where is the Philadelphia Tattoo Arts Festival 2026?

The event runs January 23-25, 2026 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, located at 1101 Arch Street in Center City Philadelphia. The convention center is accessible by SEPTA public transit and has parking garages nearby.

What happens at this event?

The convention features live tattooing by guest artists, vendor booths selling tattoo supplies and merchandise, and tattoo competitions in various categories. Artists work on pre-booked appointments and sometimes accept walk-ups if they have openings.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available through the official website at http://villainarts.com/. Villain Arts typically offers single-day passes and full-weekend tickets. Prices vary by day and package.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring a valid photo ID, as artists require identification before tattooing. Cash is recommended for tips and small purchases. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the concrete floor, and bring reference images if you plan to get tattooed.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The event welcomes people new to tattoo conventions. You can observe artists working, talk to vendors, and get a sense of different styles before committing to a tattoo. The atmosphere is open to questions and browsing.

Philadelphia Tattoo Arts Festival 2026

Name: Philadelphia Tattoo Arts Festival 2026
Start: 2026-01-23
End: 2026-01-25
Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center

The Philadelphia Tattoo Arts Festival is a three-day convention running January 23-25, 2026 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City Philadelphia. Produced by Villain Arts, the event brings together tattoo artists, collectors, and vendors from across the United States and beyond. The convention fills the exhibition hall with tattoo stations where artists work on clients throughout the weekend. Attendees can walk the floor to watch live tattooing, book appointments with guest artists, or browse vendor booths selling tattoo equipment, aftercare products, and apparel. The event includes tattoo competitions judged by established artists, with categories covering various styles and body placements. Philadelphia holds a significant place in American tattoo history. The city's connection to naval traditions and the historic Philadelphia Navy Yard helped establish a strong American traditional tattoo scene that continues today. Local shops have operated in the area for decades, maintaining the bold line work and limited color palettes characteristic of East Coast tattooing. The Pennsylvania Convention Center location puts the event within walking distance of hotels, restaurants, and public transit. The venue is accessible via SEPTA regional rail and subway lines. Parking is available at the convention center garage and surrounding lots, though spaces fill quickly on Saturdays. Tickets are available through the Villain Arts website. Options usually include single-day passes and full-weekend admission. The floor opens Friday afternoon and runs through Sunday evening. Artists often book appointments in advance through social media or email, though some accept walk-ups depending on their schedules. Attendees should bring government-issued identification, as most artists require ID before tattooing. Cash is useful for tips and small purchases from vendors, though many booths accept cards. Wear comfortable shoes, as the concrete convention floor involves hours of walking and standing.