There was a time when the words “convention” and “tattoo” were never uttered in the same sentence. But it’s 2013, an era when tattoos are not only conventional — but often come with their own congregation. Weekend-long body modification events have become commonplace throughout the Valley, and The Hell City Tattoo Festival is no exception.
This weekend’s convention features staples such as competitions (with categories including “Best Asian Tattoo” and “Worst Tattoo”), educational classes (like how to bring in business using social media), style seminars, live music, and screenings of a Hell City documentary, filmed over seven festivals.
Tattooing talents from Spike TV’s Ink Master, Tattoo Nightmares, and Oxygen Network’s Best Ink will be on-site, needles ready. Despite the demonic moniker, the festival also hosts family-friendly activities like temporary tattoos and a Heck City Kids Zone.
The three-day “Hellebration” begins each day at noon, running until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 8 p.m. Sunday, August 23 through 25, at the Arizona Biltmore, 2400 East Missouri Avenue. Tickets are $25 per day, with weekend and discounted pre-sale passes available. Visit www.hellcity.com.
Fri., Aug. 23, noon; Sat., Aug. 24, noon; Sun., Aug. 25, noon, 2013
