As the tattoo guns buzz and ink flows this weekend, Phoenix's own Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa is set to become a nexus of artistic expression and skin-deep storytelling. The Hell City Tattoo Festival makes its grand return, injecting color into the desert scene from Friday to Sunday, providing attendees a chance to admire the craftsmanship of more than 300 local and international tattoo artists—an event that has been held in high regard for over two decades and has even received nods from the History Channel and The Learning Channel.
According to Phoenix New Times, eager souls looking for luxury and lineage at this year's event will enter through the halls of the historic Arizona Biltmore, with the throng of the tattoo-enthused converging at 2400 E. Missouri Ave. The festival, a staple in the Valley since 2002, spans three days this time around, and features an extensive lineup of performers, art displays, and of course, the central attraction—body art in all its forms. "The tattoo industry in Phoenix is huge. It's been well-received since we brought it there because it's such a huge tattoo and body city," Durb Morrison, the artisan entrepreneur behind Hell City, told the publication.
Now, for those with an eye for detail—or for those who like to plan their spontaneity—tickets are snag-able via the festival's website at hellcity.com, with a slight price hike coming in just before the event. Friday and Sunday tickets go for $22, while Saturday's admission will set you back $27. Kids and teens are welcome too, though for obvious reasons, only the 18-and-over crowd can walk away with a fresh tattoo or piercing.
Turning the page to the AARP event listing, the festival isn't just about indulging in ink. Hell City is synonymous with competitions that pit the wondrous works of seasoned inkers against each other. In line with years past, each day will see a ritual lineup of categories judged, including the crowning of the 'Best of Show', and yes, even the boldest of the bunch compete for the dubious honor of 'Worst Tattoo'.
