Whether you have a tiny tattoo, or a full body suit with a few Post Malone-style touches on the face, the Hudson Valley Tattoo Fest is the place to be. The event takes place at the Poughkeepsie Civic Center March 27–28, offering a "family-friendly weekend of tattoos, art and entertainment." And what says family more than sharing a back piece or a pair of shoulder boulders with loved ones?
The festival will feature more than 200 tattoo artists plus musical performances and food from local favorites Mill House Brewing Company, Sugar and Spice Cafe and The Bus-OCNY, a food truck made from a school bus.
If you're planning to get a tattoo, keep in mind that each artist schedules his or her appointments directly and also sets prices for work (which is on top of admission costs). You must be over 18 to get tattooed and have valid photo ID.
The artists’ skills will be judged in a contest with design categories such as best ornamental, best Japanese, best black and gray, etc. There will also be a prize for the best tattoo of the day.
Another highlight will be the "Puppy Burlesque" show featuring dogs available for adoption from the Compassionate Animal Rescue Efforts of Dutchess County (which receives a cut from the festival proceeds). Tickets are $25 for a single day; $65 for the whole weekend and $80 for a VIP pass, which comes with a limited-edition festival T-shirt.
What else is there to do in the region? Luckily, we have great recommendations for you, including the best Hudson Valley wineries and best upstate New York resorts. And if you need to find a place to stay, check out our list of the best Hudson Valley Airbnb rentals.