Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get tattooed at the convention? How do I find the right tattoo artist?
There are plenty of opportunities to get tattooed at the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention!
– For appointments made ahead of time, all tattoo artists handle their own bookings. You must contact artists directly to check if they have availability for appointments. All clients who make an appointment prior to the convention will still need to purchase a ticket for entry into the convention.
– During the convention, some artists have designs that they will tattoo for a flat rate and some artists do walk-up tattoos! You can also put your name in the raffle for a free flash tattoo at the Free Tattoo Booth!
– Over 180+ talented tattoo artists travel from far and wide to attend this convention! If you’re looking for a specific artist or style of tattoo, please visit our Tattoo Artist Directory to find the perfect artist for your next tattoo!
Where do I buy tickets for the convention? How much does it cost?
You can purchase your tickets here.
– Tickets are sold both online prior to the event and at the door during the convention at the Admissions booth. There will be regular General Admission tickets and also VIP tickets that come with extra perks!
Are tickets sold out? How do Day Pass entry times work?
While certain tickets have sold out, we still have many ticket options available.
To ensure a smooth experience for all, this year’s Day Passes have assigned entry times which will be indicated on your ticket. While you can stay as long as you like once you’re in, you won’t be able to enter before your designated time.
For all-day access without a designated entry time, consider a Weekend or VIP Pass. Weekend & VIP Pass holders can check in at any time and are not bound to the timed entry of a day pass. VIP Passes get you access to VIP Check in (allowing you to bypass the general admission line).
Please note that in the event of capacity limits, there may be wait times to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. Thank you for your understanding and we hope to see you!
Should I bring cash or use credit/debit cards?
We recommend going cashless when purchasing your admission tickets, parking, and official convention merchandise, as credit/debit cards are preferred and provide a faster, more seamless experience. However, when it comes to interacting with tattoo artists and exhibitor, cash is king! Many artists and vendors may not have card payment options, so bringing cash will ensure smooth transactions. Don’t worry if you need more cash on-site—we’ll have several ATMs available throughout the venue for your convenience.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes! This convention is family friendly and children under 12 years of age get in FREE! We just ask that you do not leave your children unattended. Any child left unattended will be given energy drinks and taught to swear.
– There will be a kids’ activity area in the outdoor section of the convention, along with a Kids’ Tattoo Competitions on all three days! Check the schedule for contest times.
– Adult entertainment begins every night at 8pm, so parents can use their own discretion on determining how late their children should be at the convention.
What’s the parking situation?
Parking is $5 for a day and $10 for the weekend and can be purchased here.
Who Gets Free Tickets?
This year we are offering free Day Passes to Active Duty Military Personnel, VA Licensed Tattoo Artists, Senior Citizens (60+), and college students for Friday and Sunday. Head over here to claim your free ticket.
Be sure to bring physical proof of whichever group you fall into. (Your valid Military ID, driver’s license, copy of your tattoo license, student ID, etc…).
Are hotel accommodations available for everyone?
All attendees are welcome to stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton and party with us all weekend long! To book your room, you must use our Hotel Application. DO NOT call the hotel and try to book, they will probably tell you there is no availability for the convention weekend, as we book out the entire hotel.
How do I join the convention as a tattoo artist, exhibitor, musician, etc?
This event is invite only. However, we are always looking for talented tattoo artists, creatives, musicians, and businesses to consider for the convention and future events!
– If you’d like to be considered to tattoo at the convention, please visit our Artist Submission Form.
– If you’re a creator, exhibitor, or business, please visit our Exhibitor Submission Form.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
We’re always in need of fun, energetic, and positive personalities to help bring this convention to life! In addition to making new friends, you will also receive a limited edition Staff T-shirt and a day pass or, depending on how many shifts you can help out with, a weekend pass to the convention!
– If you’d like to sign up to volunteer, please visit our Volunteer Sign-Up Form.
Is photography allowed at this event?
All media and professional photographers must secure a press pass through Megan Wilson at megan@sweettalkstrategy.com. It is required of all media to ask for permission before photographing or recording any tattoo artists, exhibitors, and other attendees.
How do I avoid scams?
We’ve received multiple reports of individuals requesting money from tattoo artists using a fake email account. Additionally, there are fraudulent social media accounts impersonating us and soliciting funds. If you ever have doubts about a request, don’t hesitate to contact us to double-check if something is legit.
Always double-check spelling as many scams will look legit but when you look closely you will see one of the letters in the account name, email, or link is flipped.
Our Official Email Addresses end in: @RichmondTattooConvention.com
If you find a scammer, please notify us and report them right away.
