When and where is the Toronto Tattoo Show 2026?

The event runs May 1 to May 3, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building Hall C, located at 255 Front Street West in downtown Toronto. The venue sits near Union Station and connects to the city's underground PATH walkway system.

What happens at the Toronto Tattoo Show?

The convention features live tattooing by over 500 artists, tattoo competitions in categories like black and grey or traditional Japanese, and vendor booths selling equipment and supplies. Attendees can book appointments with artists or request walk-up pieces depending on availability.

How do I get tickets for the Toronto Tattoo Show?

Tickets are available through the event's official website or at the door. Single-day and weekend passes are typically offered. Check the official website for current pricing and availability as the event approaches.

What should I bring to the Toronto Tattoo Show?

Bring a valid ID, cash for tips and vendors, and reference images if you plan to get tattooed. Wear comfortable shoes as the concrete floor is hard on feet. The venue has food courts, but you can bring water.

Is this event good for first-time convention attendees?

Yes. The layout is straightforward, with artist booths arranged in rows and clear signage. Staff are present to direct visitors, and the mix of styles means you can see everything from traditional Americana to contemporary realism in one space.

The Toronto Tattoo Show #26 (2026)

Name: The Toronto Tattoo Show #26 (2026)
Start: 2026-05-01
End: 2026-05-03
Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre North Building - Hall C 255 Front St W, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2W6, Canada

The Toronto Tattoo Show #26 (also known as NIX Toronto) runs May 1 to May 3, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in downtown Toronto. This is the 26th edition of Canada's longest-running tattoo convention, held in North Building Hall C at 255 Front Street West. The event fills the convention hall with over 500 tattoo artists from across Canada and internationally. Attendees walk the floor to watch live tattooing, browse vendor booths selling equipment and supplies, and book appointments with artists who travel specifically for this weekend. The show includes tattoo competitions across multiple categories, from black and grey to traditional Japanese work. Judges evaluate pieces based on technical execution and artistic merit, with winners announced during scheduled ceremonies. Toronto has housed this convention since its start, and the city maintains one of Canada's most active tattoo communities. The downtown location puts visitors near Kensington Market and Queen West, neighborhoods with established shops that have operated for decades. The city has a history of supporting both street shop traditional work and custom studios, making this convention a reflection of the local scene's diversity. Doors open Friday morning and run through Sunday evening. Single-day and weekend passes are available at the door or in advance through the event website. The MTCC connects to Toronto's PATH underground walkway system, which links to nearby hotels and Union Station. Parking is available in the convention centre's underground garage and at surrounding lots on Front Street and Bremner Boulevard. Hotels within walking distance include the InterContinental Toronto Centre and the Fairmont Royal York. Artists set up booths with portfolios displayed on iPads and printed sheets. Many accept walk-ups for small pieces, though larger work requires booking ahead through the artist's Instagram or email. The floor gets crowded by Saturday afternoon, so arrive early if you want time to talk with specific artists. Bring cash for tips and small purchases, though most vendors accept cards. The venue allows cameras, and many attendees document the work in progress. Food courts operate on site, though many visitors walk to nearby restaurants on King Street or in the Entertainment District after the floor closes. The event maintains a straightforward layout with rows of booths and clear aisle markers, making navigation simple even for first-time visitors.