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Hell City Tattoo Festival

Phoenix Tattoo Convention and Show

By , About.com Guide

Phoenix Tattoo

Hell City 2008 - Saturday

Photo courtesy of Hell City Tattoo Fest

The Hell City Tattoo Festival is a celebration of body art and the education of tattooing. This Phoenix tattoo show is where you will find a grand collection of skilled tattoo artists and avid enthusiasts in one place. Every year thousands of people descend upon the Hell City Phoenix tattoo show to be tattooed, enter tattoo competitions, attend educational seminars, visit the Heck City kids area, absorb the many forms of art, watch unique entertainment, and hang out and meet others in the Phoenix tattoo and modification community.

See pictures from the 2009 tattoo festival.

When is the Phoenix Hell City Tattoo Tour stop?

September 4 - 6, 2009

Where will the Hell City Tattoo Tour in Phoenix be held?

The Phoenix Hell City Tattoo Tour will be held at the famous Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Central Phoenix. They couldn't have picked a more wonderful and convenient location. It is just minutes from Sky Harbor Airport, and they always have summer specials at the Biltmore. There are buses in Phoenix and a new light rail line (does not access this hotel), but if you intend to see the sights while you are here you'll have to rent a car or a bike. If your plan is to spend all your time at the Biltmore, I'd recommend a shuttle or cab from the airport.

By the way, there are no off-property restaurants within walking distance of the Biltmore, but there are several at Biltmore Fashion Park, a short cab ride from the hotel.

The conference rate being offered by the Biltmore (mention you're with Hell City) is very reasonable for this market and this resort, but if your budget doesn't allow you to stay at the Arizona Biltmore, here are some other hotels in central Phoenix.

What will happen at the Hell City Tattoo Tour?

It's a busy schedule at this Phoenix tattoo convention. Aside from the tattoo artists themselves, there will be bands, an art gallery, the Hell City Tattoo Museum exhibit, lots of merchandise for sale, tattoo competitions, books, the Heck City booth just for kids, seminars, charity fundraisers, and many, many colorful (in more ways than one) people. Here is the schedule of events so you can plan your days. Don't forget to leave some time for relaxation and to enjoy this wonderful resort. You can be sure it will be hot outside--bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses--but there will be plenty of opportunity to cool off by the pool or inside at the event.

Who should attend?

This event is suitable for everyone -- if not easily offended. Rest assured that some exhibitors and attendees will be scantily clad, and there will be tattoo art and language that might not seem tasteful to some people. If you are not already an experienced tattoo show attendee, come with an open mind! As for children, they can come, too. There will be a small area just for kids called Heck City where they can get temporary tattoos and ride in a coffin. What fun!

How much does it cost and how do I get tickets?

Tickets in advance online: $18 for a one day pass, $35 for a two day pass, $50 for a 3 day pass
Tickets at the door: $20 for a one day pass, $40 for a two day pass, $55 for a 3 day weekend pass
Children under 10 are admitted free.

There are additional charges for competing in the various contests and attending the seminars.

Why Phoenix in September?

Well, why not? September in Phoenix should be very appropriate for a conference called "Hell City!" The weather is usually still rather hot during the first part of September. If you are coming in from out of town, you can check our average temperatures (high) and rainfall (not much) for that time of year. If you decide to go out for a motorcycle ride or to play golf or do anything outdoors, please take warnings about heat exhaustion seriously. Aside from common sense, the best way to handle Phoenix heat is to joke about it!

Because of the schedule this year, you will probably be here on the first Friday of the month. That means that you can take in First Friday, one of the largest (if not THE largest) urban art space experiences in the country.

Do you have any pictures?

Yes, I do. Enjoy these photos of the 2009 Hell City Tattoo Festival.

Need more information?

Visit Hell City Tattoo Festival online.

All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.

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