When and where is the Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo?

The event runs June 19-21, 2026, at 234 Airport Road in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.

What happens at this convention?

Over 100 tattoo artists and body piercers work on-site, with vendors selling tattoo clothing, jewelry, and oddities. The event features live tattooing and piercing throughout the weekend.

How much are tickets and where do I buy them?

Admission is $25 per day or $50 for a weekend pass. Tickets are available at the door only; children under 12 enter free with a paying adult.

What should I bring to the event?

Bring cash for admission and artist deposits, a valid ID, and reference photos if you plan to get tattooed. Wear comfortable shoes for standing on concrete floors.

Is this event suitable for first-time tattoo collectors?

Yes. The family-friendly atmosphere and mix of walk-up and appointment-based artists make it accessible for first-timers, though you should research artists beforehand and book consultations early.

Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo (2026)

Name: Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo (2026)
Start: 2026-06-19
End: 2026-06-21
Location: 234 Airport Rd

The Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo is a three-day tattoo convention held June 19 through June 21, 2026, at 234 Airport Road in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The event takes place in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, drawing collectors and artists to a region known primarily for tourism and outdoor recreation, though the area has seen an increase in custom tattoo shops over the past decade. The convention fills the venue with over 100 tattoo artists and body piercers working on both appointment and walk-up basis. Attendees can look through booths selling tattoo clothing, jewelry, and oddities between watching live tattooing and piercing demonstrations. The floor is open to all ages, with children under 12 admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Daily admission is $25, or attendees can purchase a weekend pass for $50. Tickets are sold at the door with no presale option mentioned. Gatlinburg sits at the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, surrounded by tourist attractions, mountain resorts, and hiking trails. The city has a small but active tattoo community, with several shops along the Parkway serving both locals and the millions of annual visitors. This convention uses the area's existing vacation infrastructure, offering attendees access to hotels, restaurants, and outdoor activities alongside the tattoo programming. Many visitors combine the convention with park visits or local attractions. Parking is available on-site at the venue. Visitors should bring cash for door tickets and individual artist deposits, though many vendors accept cards. The event runs standard convention hours, typically 11 AM to 8 PM Friday through Sunday, though exact times should be confirmed closer to the date. Local hotels fill quickly during summer weekends, so booking accommodation early is recommended. The airport road location provides easy access from the main Parkway without requiring navigation through the most congested sections of downtown Gatlinburg.