When and where is True Blue Tattoo Convention 2026?

The event runs May 8-10, 2026 at Klokgebouw Cultuurhallen, Klokgebouw 50, 5617 AB Eindhoven, Netherlands. The venue is in the Strijp-S district, accessible by bus from Eindhoven Central Station.

What happens at this event?

Artists perform live tattooing on the convention floor. There is a marketplace for tattoo supplies and artwork. The event includes portfolio review sessions, live music performances, and a movie theater screening tattoo-related films.

How do I get tickets?

Ticket information has not been released for the 2026 edition. Check official event channels for announcements about day passes and weekend tickets when they become available.

Is this event good for first-time attendees?

Yes. The convention welcomes people who do not have tattoos. You can watch artists work, browse the marketplace, or attend the movie screenings without getting tattooed. The atmosphere is open to observers.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring photo ID if you plan to get tattooed. Cash is useful for small vendors, though cards are widely accepted. The venue has food available, and the industrial hall is heated and wheelchair accessible.

True Blue Tattoo Convention (2026)

Name: True Blue Tattoo Convention (2026)
Start: 2026-05-08
End: 2026-05-10
Location: Klokgebouw Cultuurhallen Klokgebouw 50, 5617 AB Eindhoven, Netherlands

The True Blue Tattoo Convention takes place May 8-10, 2026 at Klokgebouw Cultuurhallen in Eindhoven, Netherlands. This three-day convention occupies a former Philips factory building in the Strijp-S district, an area known for design studios and creative workspaces. The venue retains industrial features like high ceilings and open floor plans that work well for convention setups. Artists work on live tattoos throughout the weekend, taking both booked appointments and walk-up clients. The floor plan includes a marketplace where vendors sell tattoo machines, needles, inks, and aftercare products. Artists display flash sheets and original artwork for sale. You can watch tattooing happen in real time, which helps if you are researching styles or artists for future work. The convention includes portfolio review sessions where new artists can show their work to experienced professionals for critique. There are live music performances and a dedicated movie theater screening tattoo documentaries and films. These screenings run on a schedule throughout the weekend. The combination of music and film programming makes this different from smaller conventions that focus only on the tattoo floor. Klokgebouw 50 is located in the Strijp-S area, about 10 minutes by bus from Eindhoven Central Station. The venue has its own parking lot, though spaces fill quickly on Saturday. Hotels within walking distance include the Inntel Hotels Art Eindhoven and several options near the city center. The area has restaurants and bars that fill up after the convention closes each day. Strijp-S has become a destination for nightlife, so the area stays active into the evening. The Netherlands has a long tattoo history, particularly in port cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Eindhoven brings a different energy, connected to its background as a technology and design city. The convention draws Dutch artists alongside international guests, with a focus on technical execution and clean linework. Many Dutch artists are known for realistic black and grey work, and this convention reflects that strength. Tickets for the 2026 edition are not yet on sale. Previous years offered day tickets and full weekend passes. The venue provides food and drink options inside, and the hall is heated and wheelchair accessible. Attendees should bring photo ID if they plan to get tattooed, and cash is useful for smaller vendor purchases. The convention runs from midday until evening, with exact hours typically announced closer to the date.