Frequently Asked Questions Get the facts about the Three Rivers Tattoo Convention
Attending the Convention? Attendee FAQS
I didn’t buy my tickets in advance – can I buy them at the door?
We will have ticket sales available at the door during the Convention.
Are kids allowed to attend?
Yes! Children are allowed at the event with adult supervision. However, only adults 18+ may get a tattoo at the event. NO EXCEPTIONS! Please check our schedule of events before attending, as some of our entertainment may have adult content.
Can I get a tattoo at the event?
Yes, most tattoo artists are at the expo specifically to do tattoos. Check out our list of attending tattoo artists and shop ahead. You can reach out in advance to make an appointment or attend the expo to see if there is an artist that has an open appointment to do your tattoo. Some artists prefer to fully pre-schedule their tattoos, and others like to leave open space in their books for walk-ups at the show.
How much does a tattoo cost?
That is entirely up to the artist that you select. Each tattoo artist sets their own pricing, and the Three Rivers Tattoo Convention has no hand in how those prices are set. As they say, “good tattoos aren’t cheap, and cheap tattoos aren’t good!”
How should I pay for a tattoo?
Artists prefer cash. Please come prepared. If you need cash at the convention, ATMs will be available at various points of the event.
How do I enter a tattoo into the Tattoo Contest?
For most categories, to enter your fully-healed tattoo into a contest, please visit the info booth on the day of the contest at least 10 min prior to the posted contest time. Entry is $5 per tattoo and each tattoo can only be entered in ONE CONTEST. Choose wisely! Then be present at the contest time for live judging and awards.
For Tattoo of the Day, sign up any time the day your tattoo is started and completed, then be available at the designated time for live judging and awards.
Please Note: it is customary for the artist to receive the award for display in their shop and the tattoo wearer to receive bragging rights.
What is Tattoo of the Day?
Tattoo of the Day is an award for a tattoo that was started and finished on that day at the Convention, then entered in the Tattoo of the Day contest and determined by the judges to be the best Tattoo of the Day. All tattoos entered into this category must be started and finished during posted show hours of the day they are entered. This award comes with a great trophy for the artist and bragging rights for both the artist and the wearer of the tattoo.
Is there anything to eat while I’m at the event?
We have concessions running throughout the day with a full menu of delicious options to accommodate major dietary restrictions (vegan/vegetarian/gluten free). We also have a full bar available with drink specials, and are well known for our awesome Bloody Marys, so we encourage you to come out, stay awhile, and enjoy yourself! We accept cash or card.
Please Note: no outside food or beverage is allowed in the building.
For Tattoo Artists & Vendors Exhibitor FAQs
I am attending as a vendor/tattoo artist – when can I set up my booth?
Vendor load-in is Thursday from 2pm-7pm and Friday from 9am-11am.
As a tattoo artist, can I sell things other than tattoos in my booth?
Absolutely! You are welcome to sell artwork, stickers, merchandise, etc. from your booth.
Please no food and beverage sales unless approved by Three Rivers staff.
Do I need to bring my own sharps container?
One sharps container per shop will be provided by Coalition Tattoo Supply. If you need additional containers, you are responsible for bringing them with you to the show.
What are the perks to being a vendor at the Three Rivers Tattoo Convention?
We provide a special Green Room for vendors only that is stocked with snacks and beverages throughout the day in a quiet place to draw and recharge. We also host a vendor kick-off party Friday night and a Vendor Dinner on Saturday night, which is our opportunity to thank you for joining us, and your chance to network with other like-minded artists. Dinner and two drink tickets are provided for each registered vendor. Extra passes for the dinner are available to purchase for family and friends on a limited basis. Contact show staff after registration for more information.