For one weekend this August, Seattle will once again become a hub for tattoo culture as the Seattle Tattoo Expo returns to Seattle Center Exhibition Hall from Friday, August 14, through Sunday, August 16, 2026. Celebrating more than 20 years of bringing together the tattoo community, the event showcases acclaimed artists from Seattle alongside guest artists traveling from New York City, Austin, San Francisco, London, and other cities around the world.
Thinking about getting inked? You can absolutely get tattooed at the expo, but you’ll need both an admission ticket and an appointment with your chosen artist. Each artist manages their own bookings and sets their own pricing. While some artists will accept walk-up appointments during the weekend, pre-booking directly with an artist or their shop is recommended if you have someone specific in mind.
Beyond the tattoo booths, visitors can enjoy a packed entertainment lineup featuring tattoo competitions throughout the weekend, live burlesque performances on the main stage, a vendor village, concessions, and a beer and spirits garden for guests 21 and older. The event is also family-friendly, with free admission for children under 12 when accompanied by an adult.
One of the expo’s biggest draws is its tattoo contests. Contest categories include Best Color Tattoo, Best Portrait, Funniest Tattoo, and the crowd-favorite Worst Tattoo Contest, taking place Saturday at 5 p.m. If you think your ink deserves that dubious honor, the only requirement is that it measures at least 2 by 2 inches. Every day also concludes with a Best of Show competition featuring tattoos completed during the expo itself, while entries in the other categories must be fully healed. Contest entry costs $15, and participants must complete an entry form at the Contest/Merch tent next to the main stage with details including the tattoo description, artist’s name, and the number of hours the piece took to complete.
Expo hours are Friday, Aug. 14, 2–10 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 15, noon–10 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 16, noon–8 p.m. Single-day and weekend passes are still available. Tickets may also be sold at the door, but previous years have sold out, so buying in advance is the safer bet. Re-entry is permitted throughout the event.
Get more information on the expo website.
