From Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Halle Tony Garnier in Lyon will host the seventh edition of The Ink Factory, one of Europe’s most significant tattoo conventions. With over 350 tattoo artists from approximately 35 countries, the event brings together an exceptional concentration of styles and expertise, ranging from realism to blackwork, Japanese, Polynesian tribal, neotraditional, floral, and abstract.
The Ink Factory 2026 in Lyon: Three Days of Tattooing, Competitions, and Performances
This convention has established itself as a must-attend event for tattoo enthusiasts in the Rhône department, whether they come to observe, meet artists, or get inked. Visitors can freely wander through the aisles, interact with tattoo artists at their workstations, browse their portfolios, and book a session directly on-site.
The event also features exhibitors from the tattoo world, including fashion stands, jewelry, accessories, ink products, and professional supplies. A food court area will be available for on-site catering throughout the weekend.
Friday, September 18: Evening Opening (1:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
The convention opens its doors on Friday at 1:00 PM and continues until 11:00 PM, offering a long first evening to discover the artists, soak in the atmosphere, and witness the first live tattoo sessions. The evening concludes with a DJ set by Lyon-based DJs, setting a festive tone for this edition.
Saturday, September 19: Main Day (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
Saturday is the busiest day of the convention. Doors open at 11:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM. Tattoo competitions across various stylistic categories will be in full swing, stage performances will follow one another, and the aisles will experience their highest attendance. Tattoo artists will work continuously, allowing visitors to observe creations being brought to life in real-time. The evening will once again end with a DJ set.
Sunday, September 20: Grand Finale (11:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
The final day begins at 11:00 AM, closing at 8:00 PM. Sunday is primarily dedicated to the last competition categories and the awards ceremony, including the highly anticipated Best of Show, the convention’s ultimate prize. It’s also an opportunity to enjoy the final live performances and Franck Anzalone’s exhibition before closing.
Competitions, Exhibitions, and Entertainment: The Detailed Program
One of the major attractions of The Ink Factory 2026 lies in its tattoo competitions, organized over three days and divided into numerous categories. These competitions allow artists to submit their work for judgment by a professional jury in front of the public. Here are the announced categories for this edition:
- Best Trad
- Best Neotrad / New School
- Best Ornamental / Graphic
- Best Japanese / Oriental
- Best Realistic
- Best Black & Grey
- Best Color
- Best Polynesian
- Best Extra Large (Bodysuit / Full Back / Full Front)
- Best Collaboration
- Best of Day
- Best of Show
In parallel with the competitions, the 2026 edition will offer several artistic animations throughout the weekend: live illustration, street art, body painting, and live performances will complement the visual experience offered by the convention. These animations broaden the scope beyond tattooing itself, highlighting artistic disciplines that are closely related or complementary to it.
Artist Franck Anzalone will present an exhibition of oil paintings dedicated to tattooing for this occasion. This pictorial aspect, classical in its technique but rooted in ink culture, adds another dimension to a convention that is not just a simple market for body art.
The Ink Factory 2026 Ticket Prices
Entry to the convention is at Halle Tony Garnier, Lyon. Several pricing options are available:
- Full price / 1 day: €18
- 3-day Pass: €45
- Children under 12: Free entry
- Student rate: Available upon presentation of student card, sold on-site only
- PMR rate: With proof, sold on-site only
Getting to Halle Tony Garnier: What You Need to Know
Halle Tony Garnier is located at 20 Place Docteurs Charles et Christophe Mérieux, in the 7th arrondissement of Lyon. The site is accessible by public transport from the city center. Adapted access for people with reduced mobility is available on-site, with specially arranged circulation areas and accessible restrooms to ensure a comfortable visit for all audiences.
Contact Information:
- Halle Tony Garnier: 69005 Lyon
- The Ink Factory 2026 Dates and Times:
- Friday, September 18, 2026 (1:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
- Saturday, September 19, 2026 (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
- Sunday, September 20, 2026 (11:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
- Registration, Ticketing, or Reservation: Billetterie
Source: https://www.jds.fr/lyon/actu/programme-de-the-ink-factory-2026-la-convention-internationale-de-tatouage-de-retour-a-lyon-1619698_A
