Three-day tattoo and arts event features national artists, live performances, cultural exhibits, and competitions in downtown Rochester.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Flower City Tattoo Convention welcomed thousands of attendees to the Floreano Convention Center during its three-day event held November 21–23, 2025. The convention continued its growth as a regional arts and culture gathering, bringing together national tattoo artists, performers, exhibitors, and visitors from across Upstate New York and beyond.
More than 150 tattoo artists participated in this year’s event, including multiple contestants from the television series Ink Master. Attendees were able to observe live tattooing throughout the weekend, meet artists, and view a wide range of portfolio styles. The convention floor remained active from opening to close each day, with strong attendance across all three days.
The event featured an expanded entertainment lineup designed to highlight the diversity of tattoo and performance culture. Shogun Fight Co. presented live MMA demonstrations each day, drawing large crowds and offering guests a look at competitive martial arts training. Upstate Pro Wrestling hosted matches on Saturday and Sunday, adding a live athletic component that appealed to visitors of all ages.
The NGN Suspension Team performed multiple suspension demonstrations throughout the weekend, including a double suspension that became one of the most viewed moments of the event. Sideshow performers Captain & Maybelle and Reggie Bugmuncher also appeared across all three days, offering a series of live acts that blended stage performance with traditional sideshow elements.
Visitors were able to explore cultural exhibits such as the Buddy Mott Tattoo History Display, which provided historical context for American tattooing and its early practitioners. The Tattoo Confessional Booth, sponsored by Tattoos Saved My Life, allowed attendees to share the personal stories behind their tattoos in a private interview-style format.
Daily tattoo competitions recognized work completed at the event, with categories covering body placement, artistic style, color and black-and-gray executions, collaborations, and overall craftsmanship. Winners of each category will be announced in the full recap available on the event’s website.
Organizers noted a significant increase in attendance compared to previous years, as well as a positive impact on surrounding downtown businesses. Hotels, restaurants, and nearby attractions reported increased activity during the weekend, further establishing the convention as a contributor to Rochester’s arts, tourism, and cultural economy.
Following the strong turnout, the Flower City Tattoo Convention announced that it will return to the Floreano Convention Center for a Summer Edition on July 24–26, 2026. Planning is underway to expand entertainment offerings, increase artist capacity, and introduce new features for visitors.
For more information visit https://flowercitytattoo.com and a full recap of the 2025 event visit http://www.ghostanddarkness.com.
All Media provided by Marke Anderson – @formless_photography
Media Contact
Rob DPiazza
rob@ghostanddarkness.com
