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National Tattoo Day

Celebrate National Tattoo Day with a unique piece of art! Get inspired and find the perfect design for your special tattoo.

Friday

July 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJuly 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYStyle

SUBCATEGORYSkincare

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Tattoo Day on July 17, and show off your stylish body art! This special day was created to honor the long-standing tradition of tattooing. It's been around for centuries and has been used as a form of expression, self-identity and adornment. Whether it's a simple design or an intricate work of art, tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years — so let’s celebrate them on this special day!

DEALS & OFFERS

Past offers

No active deals yet — here’s who’s celebrated before.

Nothing yet for 2026

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Silver Squid Ink

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TIMELINE

National Tattoo Day Timeline

Oldest Known Tattoo

Otzi the Iceman, the oldest naturally preserved mummy, is found with various tattoos, marking the earliest known evidence of human tattooing.

Cook's Voyage to Polynesia

During his first voyage, Captain James Cook encounters tattooed natives in Polynesia, bringing the art of tattooing to wider European awareness.

Electric Tattoo Machine Patented

New Yorker Samuel O'Reilly patents the first electric tattoo gun, making the tattooing process easier and safer than traditional methods.

Tattooing Ban in NYC

New York City bans tattooing due to a hepatitis B outbreak. The ban is eventually lifted in 1997.

Progressive Acceptance

During the 2000s, tattoos gain significant cultural acceptance and popularity worldwide.

Inception of National Tattoo Day

National Tattoo Day is first recognized and celebrated in the United States on July 17th. The day honors the history, artistry, and cultural significance of tattoos.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Tattoo Day

Visit a tattoo parlor

Spend the day browsing local tattoos and designs. Check out the portfolios of different artists and find one that you really like the style of.

GET

Get your own tattoo

If you have always wanted to get a tattoo, why not take the plunge on National Tattoo Day? Make sure to do your research first and pick out the perfect design for you.

THROW

Throw a tattoo party

Invite all your friends over for a night of food and fun. Have everyone bring their favorite body art supplies and spend the night inking each other up.

ATTEND

Attend a tattoo convention

Many cities hold conventions throughout the year dedicated to tattoos and body art. Spend some time exploring the vendors, checking out competitions, and meeting others who share your passion.

WATCH

Watch a movie about tattoos

Take some time to relax with a movie about tattoos. Whether it's an old classic or something new, it's sure to put a smile on your face.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Tattoo Day

Tattoos make statements

National Tattoo Day is more than just a celebration of body art; it's also an opportunity to make powerful statements about yourself and what you stand for. Whether you choose a symbol that represents your identity or values, your tattoo can serve as a reminder of who you are and where you come from.

Tattoos are meaningful

Whether it's to commemorate a loved one, show off your individuality, or just for fun, tattoos can be deeply meaningful and personal. On National Tattoo Day, people celebrate the power of body art to tell stories and express ideas in ways that cannot be accomplished with words alone.

Tattoos are beautiful

There's something truly amazing about seeing a person's skin adorned with intricate designs and brightly colored ink. Whether it's a simple line drawing or an elaborate scene, tattoos always have the potential to captivate you with their beauty.

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