Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention 2026: A Midwest Celebration of Ink
The Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention has established itself as a premier destination for tattoo culture in the Midwest. The 2026 event, marking the convention’s sixth year, brought together approximately 300 artists from across the United States to celebrate artistry and community in Des Moines, Iowa.
Event Details and Schedule
The 2026 convention took place from April 10th through April 12th at the EMC Expo Center (730 3rd Street, Des Moines, IA 50309). The event featured a comprehensive three-day schedule:
- Friday, April 10: 2 PM – Midnight
- Saturday, April 11: 11 AM – Midnight
- Sunday, April 12: 11 AM – 8 PM
A National Gathering of Talent
Whereas the event strongly emphasizes Iowa and Midwest talent, it attracts a diverse array of professionals from across the country. The 2026 roster included artists traveling from Florida, California, Tennessee, Novel Jersey, Nevada, Colorado, and Pennsylvania (via KHAK).
Featured Iowa Shops
Numerous tattoo studios from across the Hawkeye State participated in the event, including:
- Des Moines: Arcadian Tattoo, DSM Tattoo Collective, and Iron Heart Tattoo & Piercing
- Ankeny: All Day Tattoo and Art Studio, Black Dahlia Tattoo, and Empire Tattoo
- Other Regions: Bloodroot & Bone (Knoxville), Dreamscape Studios (West Liberty), and Evolution Tattoo (Cedar Rapids)
Beyond the Ink: Attractions and Competitions
The convention is more than just a tattooing event; it’s a full-scale festival. Hosted by Bernadette Macias, the event featured a variety of entertainment and engagement options:
- Live Entertainment: The event included live music, live painters, and performances.
- Interactive Elements: Attendees could participate in a silent auction and visit various vendors.
- Tattoo Competitions: Daily competitions were held for new and existing tattoos. Notably, the 2026 event featured a “Worst Tattoo” competition, where the winner received a free tattoo removal (via KHAK).
Special Guests
The 2026 convention hosted a wide range of special guests, including DJ Tambe, Dave Koenig, Gian Karle, Dominic Holmes, Jonathan Penchoff, Jake Parsons, Jesse Smith, Joshua Bowers, Nick Baxter, Scotty Munster, Nathan Evans, Seth Holmes, Sydney Dyer, Nikki Simpson, Bobby Johnson, and Freddie Albrighton.
- Scale: Approximately 300 artists from across the U.S.
- Location: EMC Expo Center, Des Moines, Iowa.
- Highlights: Live music, silent auctions, and a unique “Worst Tattoo” contest.
- Scope: A family-friendly environment featuring live tattooing and painting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention?
It is a huge annual event that celebrates tattoo culture, artistry, and community in the Midwest, featuring hundreds of artists and vendors from various U.S. States.
Where was the 2026 event held?
The event was held at the EMC Expo Center in Des Moines, Iowa.
Who hosted the event?
The convention was hosted by Bernadette Macias.