When Martin Luther King Jr. weekend arrives on January 16-18, 2026, the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu transforms into the epicenter of Pacific tattoo artistry as the Oahu International Tattoo & Art Expo brings together over 100 tattoo artists from around the world for three days of live tattooing, art competitions, cultural demonstrations, and body art celebration. Hosted by Triple Crown Tattoo Expos, this second annual event blends Hawaii's rich tattoo heritage with contemporary styles from Japanese traditional to Polynesian tribal, American traditional to photorealism, creating an immersive experience for tattoo enthusiasts, art collectors, and curious visitors exploring Oahu's creative scene during peak winter travel season.
Confirmed Dates, Times, and Location
Event Schedule
Dates: Friday, January 16 through Sunday, January 18, 2026 (MLK Weekend)
Venue: Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
Daily Hours: (Typical tattoo convention schedule based on industry standards)
- Friday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The three-day format on a long holiday weekend makes it ideal for mainland visitors and neighbor island residents to justify travel, combining the expo with a Waikiki beach vacation just steps away.
Hawaii Convention Center: Prime Location
The Hawaii Convention Center sits at the gateway between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, offering:
- Walking distance from Waikiki hotels (10-15 minutes)
- Direct access via Ala Moana Boulevard and Kalākaua Avenue
- Adjacent to Ala Moana Center shopping
- Multiple parking options and public transit connections
- Professional exhibition space with climate control
- Easy access to beach, dining, and nightlife
This central Honolulu location allows attendees to seamlessly blend expo visits with classic Oahu activities like morning beach time, afternoon tattooing, and evening entertainment.
Ticket Pricing and How to Attend
Admission Options
Based on similar Hawaii tattoo conventions and preliminary pricing information:
Single Day Pass: $20
2-Day Pass: $30
Full Weekend Pass: $50 (best value, saves $10)
Children 12 and under: FREE
Military Discount: Available with valid ID
Tickets can be purchased:
- Online in advance (recommended)
- At the door (subject to capacity)
- Through official event social media channels (@oahutattooexpo on Instagram)
What's Included
Your admission covers:
- Access to 100+ tattoo artist booths
- Live tattooing demonstrations and opportunities
- Art competitions and judging
- Cultural performances and demonstrations
- Vendor marketplace
- Photo opportunities with featured artists
- Seminars and panel discussions (schedule TBD)
Featured Artists and Styles
100 Tattooers from Around the World
The Oahu International Tattoo & Art Expo brings diverse artistic talent including:
Pacific and Polynesian Masters:
- Traditional Hawaiian tattooing (kakau) practitioners
- Samoan tatau artists preserving ancient techniques
- Contemporary Polynesian fusion designers
- Island-based artists blending tribal with modern styles
International Styles:
- Japanese traditional and irezumi specialists
- American traditional (old school) legends
- Photorealism and portrait artists
- Blackwork and geometric designers
- Neo-traditional innovators
- Watercolor and abstract artists
Local Hawaii Talent:
- Oahu-based tattooers from renowned island shops
- Neighbor island artists (Maui, Big Island, Kauai)
- Rising stars in Hawaii's tattoo community
Booking On-Site Tattoos
Many artists accept walk-up appointments during the expo, while others require advance booking through social media or their shops. Best practices:
- Research artists before the event through Instagram hashtag #oahutattooexpo
- Bring reference photos and design ideas
- Expect to pay deposits for larger pieces
- Smaller tattoos ($100-300) are most common for convention walk-ups
- Book appointments early Friday for weekend slots
Competitions and Entertainment
Tattoo Contest Categories
Convention competitions typically include:
Traditional Categories:
- Best Black and Grey
- Best Color
- Best Portrait
- Best Sleeve
- Best Back Piece
- Best Small Tattoo
- Best Traditional
Specialty Categories:
- Best Polynesian
- Best Japanese
- Best Cover-Up
- Best First Tattoo
- Judges' Choice
- People's Choice
Winners often receive cash prizes, trophies, and recognition that elevates both artist and collector profiles in the tattoo community.
Live Entertainment
Expect daily programming including:
- Live music performances (local bands, DJs)
- Body painting demonstrations
- Hula and Polynesian cultural performances
- Fire knife dancing (traditional Samoan art)
- Artist Q&A panels
- Tattoo technique demonstrations
- Meet-and-greets with celebrity tattooers
Entertainment schedules are typically posted on social media one week before the event.
Cultural Context: Tattoo Heritage in Hawaii
Ancient Hawaiian Tattooing (Kakau)
Before Western contact, tattooing held profound spiritual and social significance in Hawaiian culture. Traditional kakau used hand-tapped tools made from bone, turtle shell, or wood to apply geometric patterns signifying:
- Family lineage and genealogy
- Personal accomplishments and status
- Protection and spiritual connection
- Island identity and belonging
The Oahu International Tattoo & Art Expo honors this heritage by featuring practitioners who maintain ancient techniques alongside contemporary artists pushing boundaries.
Modern Hawaii Tattoo Scene
Today, Hawaii sits at the crossroads of Pacific and global tattoo culture, with:
- World-renowned shops in Honolulu, Kailua, and across islands
- Fusion of Polynesian tribal with Japanese, American, and European styles
- Deep respect for cultural authenticity in traditional work
- Thriving community of artists and collectors
- International destination status for tattoo enthusiasts
The expo celebrates this unique position where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge artistry.
Planning Your Visit
What to Bring
For Getting Tattooed:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (required, minimum age 18)
- Cash (many artists prefer cash, though some accept cards)
- Reference photos and design ideas
- Comfortable clothing providing access to tattoo location
- Water bottle and snacks (tattooing can take hours)
- Pain management mindset (avoid alcohol before/during)
For Spectating:
- Camera or smartphone (ask permission before photographing artists/clients)
- Comfortable walking shoes (lots of standing and exploring)
- Light layers (convention center air conditioning)
- Small bag for vendor purchases
Etiquette and Best Practices
- Respect working artists: Don't interrupt during active tattooing
- Ask before photographing: Always get permission for photos of tattoos or artists
- Touch is off-limits: Never touch artwork, equipment, or fresh tattoos
- Plan bathroom/food breaks: Long tattoo sessions require preparation
- Tip your artist: 15-20% is customary for quality work
- No alcohol or drugs: Most conventions maintain sober environments
Beyond the Expo: Oahu Activities
Friday Pre-Expo and Evening
Morning: Diamond Head sunrise hike, Waikiki beach time
Noon: Expo opening, browse artists, book weekend appointments
Evening: Waikiki Friday fireworks (9:30 PM), beach bars, live music
Saturday Full Day
Morning: Early expo entry for best artist availability
Afternoon: Continue expo or break for lunch at Ala Moana Center
Late Afternoon: Watch competition judging and awards
Evening: North Shore sunset dinner, Haleiwa town exploration
Sunday and Monday Extension
Sunday: Final expo day, last chance for walk-up tattoos
Monday (MLK Day): Recovery activities like snorkeling, spa, or whale watching (peak season)
Pairing with Other January Events
The MLK weekend in Honolulu is particularly active:
- Polynesian Bowl (Friday, Jan 16): High school all-star football at Kunuiākea Stadium
- TransPacific Volleyball Championships (Jan 16-19): 360+ youth teams competing
- Sony Open in Hawaii (Jan 13-19): PGA Tour event at Waialae Country Club
- Whale watching season: Peak humpback activity in Hawaiian waters
You can easily combine multiple events into one island weekend.
Where to Stay
Waikiki (Most Convenient):
- Walking distance to Hawaii Convention Center
- Every budget level from hostels to luxury resorts
- Beach access, dining, nightlife
- Iconic Oahu experience
Ala Moana Area:
- Adjacent to expo venue
- Ala Moana Center shopping
- Slightly less touristy than Waikiki
- Good hotel values
Downtown Honolulu:
- Historic district charm
- Chinatown dining and nightlife
- Short ride to expo
- Lower rates than beachfront
North Shore:
- Surf town atmosphere
- World-famous beaches
- 45-60 minutes to Honolulu
- Better for extended stays with rental car
Book early for MLK weekend—January is popular for whale watching and winter sun seekers.
Getting to Oahu
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) offers direct flights from major mainland cities. January travel tips:
- Book 2-3 months in advance for best airfares
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen (required by Hawaii law)
- Bring light layers for air-conditioned venues
- Consider carry-on only for weekend trips
- Arrange ground transport (rental car, Uber, or hotel shuttle)
Call to Action: Ink Your Island Adventure
The Oahu International Tattoo & Art Fest 2026 offers a rare opportunity to experience world-class tattoo artistry in paradise. Whether you're ready to commit to that dream sleeve, seeking inspiration for your next piece, or simply curious about the intersection of ancient Hawaiian tattoo traditions and contemporary body art, January 16-18 at the Hawaii Convention Center delivers an unforgettable experience.
Grab your weekend pass now, research featured artists on Instagram, and start planning your Oahu escape. Book your Waikiki hotel, secure your flight, and prepare to witness 100+ artists transforming skin into living art while trade winds blow and whales breach just offshore. When the needles buzz and ink flows at the Hawaii Convention Center, you'll be part of a cultural celebration that honors Hawaii's tattoo heritage while pushing the art form's future.
The artists are coming. The island is ready. Your next tattoo awaits.
Verified Information at a Glance
Event Category: International tattoo convention and body art expo
Official Name: Oahu International Tattoo & Art Expo (2nd Annual)
Dates: Friday, January 16 through Sunday, January 18, 2026 (MLK Weekend)
Venue: Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
Featured Artists: 100+ tattoo artists from Hawaii, mainland USA, and international locations
Ticket Pricing:
- Single Day Pass: $20
- 2-Day Pass: $30
- Full Weekend Pass: $50 (save $10)
- Children 12 and under: FREE
- Military discount available
Hosted By: Triple Crown Tattoo Expos
Event Elements:
- Live tattooing and bookings
- Art competitions and judging
- Vendor marketplace
- Cultural performances
- Live entertainment
- Seminars and demonstrations
Social Media: @oahutattooexpo (Instagram)
Location Benefits:
- Walking distance from Waikiki
- Adjacent to Ala Moana Center
- Near beaches, dining, nightlife
- Easy public transit and rideshare access
Age Requirement: 18+ with valid ID for tattoos; all ages welcome as spectators
Airport: Daniel K. Inouye International (HNL), approximately 15-20 minutes from venue
All dates, venue, artist count, and pricing confirmed through official event promotions and multiple ticketing sources.
