Tattoo culture takes over Old Montreal this weekend as Art Tattoo Montreal returns from August 28 to 30, 2026 for its 22nd edition at the Grand Quai of the Port of Montreal.
More than 300 tattoo artists from Canada and around the world are gathering for three days of live tattooing, competitions, art exhibitions, vendors and a celebration of tattoo culture.
Whether you’re planning to leave with some new ink or simply want to discover the work of artists from around the world, here’s what you need to know before visiting Art Tattoo Montreal 2026.
Art Tattoo Montreal 2026 dates, location and hours
- Friday, August 28: 6 p.m. to midnight
- Saturday, August 29: noon to 11 p.m.
- Sunday, August 30: noon to 7 p.m.
- Location: Grand Quai of the Port of Montreal
- Address: 200 de la Commune Street West, Montreal
The convention is open to the public, whether you’re looking for a tattoo or simply want to explore tattoo art and culture.
More than 300 tattoo artists in Montreal
One of Art Tattoo Montreal’s biggest attractions is the diversity of its participating artists.
More than 300 tattooers from Quebec, across Canada and around the world are gathering at the Grand Quai.
International artists are travelling from countries including Japan, South Korea, the United States, Taiwan, Brazil, Ireland, Australia, Mexico, Germany, France and Switzerland.
Visitors can discover a wide range of styles, including American traditional, Japanese, realism, dotwork, neo-traditional and many more approaches to tattooing.
Explore the Art Tattoo Montreal 2026 artists.
Can you get tattooed at the convention?
Yes. Visitors can get tattooed directly at Art Tattoo Montreal.
Book an artist in advance
You can contact participating artists directly by email, social media or phone before attending to ask about availability and discuss your tattoo idea.
Getting a walk-in tattoo
You can also explore artist portfolios at the convention and ask about walk-in availability.
With more than 300 artists under one roof, the convention offers an opportunity to discover tattooers you might never otherwise have the chance to meet.
Important: tattoos are not included in the admission price. Tattoo prices are arranged directly with individual artists.
Tattoo competitions
Tattoo competitions are an important part of Art Tattoo Montreal and showcase some of the weekend’s most impressive work.
A Best of Day competition takes place during each day of the convention.
The event also features Masterpiece categories highlighting larger healed projects, including full sleeves, legs and bodysuits.
The special theme for the 22nd edition is Mythical Creatures, inviting artists to create tattoos inspired by supernatural beings from mythology, folklore, stories or their own imagination.
View the tattoo competition information.
Art exhibitions and more
Art Tattoo Montreal extends beyond tattooing.
The CICU Lounge features THATSNOTMADEFORTHAT, an exhibition by Ottawa artist and tattooer Julian Garner, also known as Five Cents, whose multidisciplinary work includes painting, murals and woodworking.
The weekend also features the Poster Project along with competitions and musical programming.
The CICU Lounge is free to access, while admission is required to enter the main tattoo area.
Vendors, artists and music
Visitors can explore specialized tattoo suppliers and independent vendors offering books, clothing, jewelry, artwork, home decor and other creations.
DJ Wire is also part of the weekend programming, while Renzo Sandwich is serving food in the CICU Lounge.
Saturday, August 29 highlights
- Noon: doors open
- Noon to 11 p.m.: live tattooing
- Noon to 11 p.m.: THATSNOTMADEFORTHAT exhibition and Poster Project
- 4 p.m.: Masterpiece competition – back, arm or leg
- Evening: DJ Wire
- 11 p.m.: Best of Day tattoo competition
Sunday, August 30 highlights
- Noon: doors open
- Noon to 7 p.m.: live tattooing and exhibitions
- 3 p.m.: Masterpiece / Bodysuit competition
- 5 p.m.: Mythical Creatures tattoo competition
- 6 p.m.: Best of Day
- 7 p.m.: closing of the 22nd edition
View the full Art Tattoo Montreal activity schedule.
Art Tattoo Montreal 2026 ticket prices
Tickets are available at the door:
- Friday: $20
- Saturday: $25
- Sunday: $25
- 3-day pass: $60
- Ages 15-17: $15
- Ages 14 and under: free
Why visit Art Tattoo Montreal?
You don’t need to be planning your next tattoo to enjoy the convention.
Visitors can watch artists work live, explore hundreds of portfolios, discover different tattoo traditions and techniques, visit art exhibitions and meet people from across the tattoo community.
For anyone considering a future tattoo, it is also an opportunity to meet artists face-to-face and find a style that fits your project.
Art Tattoo Montreal 2026 FAQ
When is Art Tattoo Montreal 2026?
The 22nd edition takes place from August 28 to 30, 2026.
Where is Art Tattoo Montreal?
The convention takes place at the Grand Quai of the Port of Montreal, 200 de la Commune Street West in Old Montreal.
Can I get tattooed at Art Tattoo Montreal?
Yes. Visitors can book participating artists in advance or ask about walk-in availability during the convention.
How many tattoo artists are attending?
More than 300 local, Canadian and international artists are participating in the 2026 edition.
Is the tattoo included with admission?
No. Admission provides access to the convention. Tattoo services are paid separately and arranged directly with the artist.
Do I need to have tattoos to attend?
No. The convention is open to the public and welcomes both tattoo collectors and people who are simply curious about tattoo art and culture.
Can children attend?
Yes. According to the official pricing information, admission is free for children aged 14 and under.
MTL TIMES at Art Tattoo Montreal 2026
MTL TIMES will be on site for the 22nd edition of Art Tattoo Montreal, meeting artists and capturing the atmosphere of the convention at the Grand Quai.
Follow MTLTimes.com and our social platforms for coverage throughout the weekend.
For the latest information, visit the official Art Tattoo Montreal website.
