Waterford City Tattoo Convention #12

The Waterford City Tattoo Convention is a 3-day gathering for tattoo collectors and artists held annually in Ireland's oldest city. The 2026 event runs May 1-3 at the Saint Saviours Parish Centre in Ballybeg, a residential area approximately 3 kilometers from Waterford city center. This is the 12th edition of the convention. The venue is Cill Barra, the community hall attached to Saint Saviours Parish Centre. The space accommodates approximately 40-50 vendor booths and tattoo stations. Artists work on appointments and walk-ups depending on availability. The convention floor includes areas for live tattooing, merchandise sales, and food vendors. The event started in 2014 and has grown from a small local gathering to a fixture in the Irish tattoo calendar. It draws artists from across Ireland and the UK, with some international guests. The convention focuses on traditional and neo-traditional styles common in Irish tattooing, though artists work in all styles. Waterford has a tight-knit tattoo community. The city has six established shops within the medieval walls and surrounding areas. The convention reflects this community feel. Many local artists have attended since the first edition. Attendees can watch live tattooing, browse equipment and art supplies, or book sessions with specific artists. The convention typically runs from 11 AM to 10 PM on Saturday and Sunday, with Friday being a shorter preview day or full day depending on the schedule. There are usually tattoo competitions on Saturday evening with categories for black and grey, color, and best of show. Parking is available at the parish center lot and on surrounding streets. Ballybeg is served by bus routes from the city center. Hotels in Waterford city center are a 10-minute drive or taxi ride away. The Granville Hotel and Waterford Marina Hotel are the closest large accommodations. Tickets are available at the door or in advance through the event's social media pages. Day passes and weekend passes are typically offered. Cash is useful for the door and some vendors, though most accept cards. Attendees should bring photo ID and should eat before arriving or use the food vendors on site. The convention usually hosts an afterparty at a local pub in Waterford city center on Saturday night. This is open to artists and ticket holders.