When and where is Rio Tattoo Week 2026?

The event runs from July 17 to July 20, 2026, at the Metropolitan Convention Center in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro. Doors open daily at noon and close at 10 PM.

What happens at Rio Tattoo Week?

The convention has live tattooing at individual artist booths, daily tattoo competitions on the main stage, and a vendor area with supply companies and aftercare products. There are also seminars for tattoo artists on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are available at https://riotattooweek.com.br/ as single-day passes or four-day wristbands. You can buy them online in advance or at the door, though online purchases are recommended to avoid lines.

What should I bring to the convention?

Bring a valid government-issued ID proving you are 18 or older, cash for deposits and small purchases, and reference images if you want a custom tattoo. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing because the venue can get warm with crowds.

Is this event good for first-time convention attendees?

Yes. The layout is straightforward with clear signage, and the atmosphere is relaxed compared to some international shows. First-timers can watch competitions to see how tattoo contests work, browse portfolios without pressure, and get small flash pieces from artists who take walk-ups.

Rio Tattoo Week #13 (2026)

Name: Rio Tattoo Week #13 (2026)
Start: 2026-07-17
End: 2026-07-20
Location: Metropolitan Convention Center

Rio Tattoo Week is Brazil's largest tattoo convention and runs from July 17 to July 20, 2026, at the Metropolitan Convention Center in Rio de Janeiro. This is the 13th edition of the event, which has grown into one of the biggest tattoo gatherings in South America since its first show. The Metropolitan Convention Center sits in the Barra da Tijuca neighborhood, about 45 minutes from Copacabana Beach. The venue has concrete floors and high ceilings typical of convention halls, with space for over 300 artist booths. Rio's tattoo scene mixes Brazilian traditional styles with influences from street art and tropical imagery. Many local artists specialize in bold lines and bright colors that reflect the city's beach culture and Carnival traditions. The four-day schedule runs Friday through Monday. Each day starts around noon and continues until 10 PM. The main floor has three sections: individual artist booths where you can book walk-up appointments, a vendor area with supply companies and aftercare products, and a central stage for competitions. The flash tattoo area fills up fast on weekends, with artists offering pre-drawn designs at set prices. Competitions happen daily in categories like Best Black and Grey, Best Color, and Best of Day. Judges are working tattoo artists with established portfolios. There is also a seminar program on Saturday and Sunday mornings covering technical skills and business topics for tattooers. Tickets are sold as single-day passes or four-day wristbands. The venue has paid parking underneath the building and is accessible by bus from the city center. Hotels in Barra da Tijuca are within walking distance, though many attendees stay in Copacabana or Ipanema and take taxis or rideshares to the event. Bring a valid ID, as the event is 18+. Cash is useful for deposits and merchandise, though most artists accept cards for final payments. Wear comfortable shoes because you will stand for hours while browsing portfolios.