FRIDAY
PUBLIC HOURS 1P-10P
1:00 PM Festival Doors Open
2:00 PM Booth Judging Begins
2:00 PM- 9:00PM Tattoo Contest Registration Open
9:00 PM CONTESTS BEGIN
*Best Booth
*Fresh Small Black & Grey 6”x6” or smaller
*Fresh Small Color 6”x6” or smaller
*Fresh Medium Black & Grey 8”x8” or smaller
*Fresh Medium Color 8”x8” or smaller
*Tattoo of the Day
10:00 PM DOORS CLOSED
SATURDAY
PUBLIC HOURS 11A-10P
11:00 AM Festival Doors Open
12:00 PM-9:15PM Tattoo Contest Registration Open
5:00 PM Worst Tattoo Contest hosted by Removery
6:00PM Tattoo Contest Judging Begins
*Best Healed Small Black & Grey 6”x6” or Smaller
*Best Healed Arm/Leg Sleeve
*Best Healed Back Piece / Full Front
*Best Healed Small Color 6”x6” or Smaller
8:15PM FRESH CONTESTS BEGIN
*Fresh Small Black & Grey 6”x6” or smaller
*Fresh Small Color 6”x6” or smaller
*Fresh Medium Black & Grey 8”x8” or smaller
*Fresh Medium Color 8”x8” or smaller
*Tattoo of the Day
10:00 PM DOORS CLOSED
SUNDAY
PUBLIC HOURS 11A-7P
11:00 AM Festival Doors Open
12:00 PM-3:30PM Tattoo Contest Registration Open
4:00PM Tattoo Contest Judging Begins
*Best Healed Large Black & Grey
*Best Healed Pop Culture
*Best Healed Large Color
5:15PM FRESH CONTESTS BEGIN
*Fresh Small Black & Grey 6”x6” or smaller
*Fresh Small Color 6”x6” or smaller
*Fresh Medium Black & Grey 8”x8” or smaller
*Fresh Medium Color 8”x8” or smaller
*Best Multi-Day Tattoo *Tattoo of the Day
7:00 PM DOORS CLOSED
Where does the festival take place?
The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center in beautiful Dultuh, Minnesota.
When is the Great North Tattoo Fest?
August 21-23, 2026. We couldn’t think of a better time to enjoy this amazing city. It’s perfect weather.
What are the hours?
Friday 1p-10p
Saturday 11a-10p
Sunday 11a-7p
Can I buy presale tickets?
Presale tickets are available using the ticket link on this website. Tickets are collected at Will Call at the event.
Can I get tattooed at the Great North Tattoo Fest?
Anyone over 18 can get tattooed at the show. You must sign a release form and present a valid ID. If you want tattooed by a specific artist, you should contact them in advance and set up an appointment. Some artists take tattoos on a first come, first served basis. Just ask them at their booth!
How do I book an appointment?
You will need to contact your preferred artist directly. This can usually be done by sending a message on their social media, sending an email, or a booking link on their website. Some artists may have more information about booking in their Instagram bio or on a post they have made.
How much are tattoos?
Each artist will price their tattoos. You will need to inquire with them. This can be done in advance of the festival or asking during the event.
Which artists will be at the Festival?
You can find the attending artists in the menu above. Click Exhibitors from the main menu. You can also see them listed on our website and social media pages.
Are group rates available for hotels?
We do our best to acquire group rate pricing for hotels. If these are available, you can find them on the EVENT INFO page. We are not able to provide group rates in all locations.
How much is admission for children?
Children 14 and under are free with their guardian. If your child could be mistaken for an older age, bring proof of age.
Can I remove my wristband? What if I lose my wristband?
No. Removed or lost wristbands are subject to a full re-entry fee. Do not remove your wristband at any time.
Can I bring my pet to the Great North Tattoo Fest?
Unfortunately, service animals are the only animals allowed in the festival area.
Can I enter tattoos that were not done at the Great North Tattoo Fest in contests?
Yes! All contests, other than tattoo of the day and those listed as FRESH, are for healed tattoos only. We accept entries that were done anywhere, by any artist.
You have the chance to be at the heart of an unforgettable experience for tattoo artists and collectors worldwide! We’re building the ultimate tattoo festival, and we need passionate volunteers like you to make it truly spectacular. Imagine having as much fun as the attendees while playing a vital role in creating an amazing event – that’s what being a volunteer with us is all about!
We simply can’t do it without you. If you’re ready to contribute your energy and enthusiasm, sign up below and help us make this the most incredible tattoo festival yet!