What if my question is not answered here?
This F.A.Q is designed to answer the most commonly asked question but if you have one not covered here feel free to email WestchesterTattooCon@gmail.com and we will happily do our best to answer it for you.
Tattooing
Do people get tattoos at Tattoo Conventions?
YES, getting a tattoo at a tattoo convention is often the reason people come. Although it is also great to just come and enjoy the entertainment, meet the celebrity guests, new artists, and check out the products our vendors carry.
How much do tattoos cost?
Prices are set by individual artists and are based on a variety of factors including the amount of time it will take, size, placement, level of detail, etc.
I want to get a tattoo by one of the artists at the convention how do I do that?
If you are interested in having a tattoo done by one of our exhibiting artists, it is best to research their work and make an appointment with them prior to the event. You must contact the shop/artist directly to make an appointment and handle any deposits. If you are having trouble locating contact info for an artist, send a request to info@westchestertattooconvention.com.
Is there a minimum age to receive a tattoo?
You must be at least 18 years of age -NO EXCEPTIONS. Prior to beginning any work, artists are required to obtain a copy of proof of the client’s age as well as a signed consent form.
How do the Tattoo Contests Work?
Artists at the event as well as the general public can enter either tattoos they have done or tattoos they personally have into the contests each day.
The list of categories is available under the tattoo contests section in the navigation bar.
Each entry requires a small fee and the contests will be judged each night of the event with winners receiving a trophy for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. In addition Tattoo of the Day and Best in Show will receive a very special custom trophy only available in those categories.
Entrants must be present at the time of the contests to have their tattoo judged and receive their trophy.
Artist and Vendors
How do I sign up as an Artist or Vendor?
If you are interested in being a Tattoo Artist, Piercer, or Vendor at the event please check the Tattoo Artist or Vendor pages above for all the info you need.
When can I load in?
Load in time is 9am - 2:45pm Friday of the event for Artists and Vendors. If you are a vendor with a large set up a Thursday load in may be possible, please contact us to discuss.
The Event
What are the hours of the convention?
The convention will be open to the general public at the following times:
Tattoo & Vendor Hall
Friday: 3pm - 11pm
Saturday: 11am - 10pm
Sunday: 11am - 7pm
Celebrity Hall
Friday: 3pm - 10pm
Saturday: 11am - 8pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm
Other events such as screenings, tournaments, and other special events may run after the show floor hours.
Can I bring my family to the event?
Yes- All ages are welcome and kids under 12 are FREE.
We also have a FREE kids zone with a bounce house, games, activities, and more
How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available via the link above and on the main page of this site.
Tickets will also be sold at the door during the event (if there are any left by that time). Tickets will be cheaper by purchasing in advance.
Kids 12 and under can enter free of charge with a paying adult.
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
If tickets do not sell out in advance they will be available at the door each day of the event. Tickets may be more expensive day of.
Do I need to purchase a separate ticket for the entertainment?
No, the ticket price for the event includes general admission for all standard performances and events scheduled for the day.
Some artist seminars, celebrity guest autographs, photo-ops, certain concerts, or after party events may require a separate ticket. Check the schedule for this years show for an up to date list of events and more information.
Where Can I park?
The Westchester County Center has a paid parking lot right across the street from the venue.
There is also street parking available around the area but please be sure to pay attention to to street parking regulations and avoid parking in other stores parking lots to avoid tickets and or boots.
We also encourage all attendees to use the vast amount of public transportation available near the venue. Please check out the travel section under show info in the navigating bar for more details.
Can I get there on Mass Transit?
Yes, there are a ton of options to get to the Westchester County Center via Mass Transit from all over.
Please visit the Hotel and Travel section under the Show Info section on the navigation bar above.
Will there be food & beverages available at the event?
Yes, concession services are available within the Westchester County Center.
The venue has a strict no outside food policy which we have no control over.
ATM machines are also conveniently located.
Is internet access available?
The Westchester County Center has Free Wi-Fi. While it generally works great it can experience slowdown and issues with increased attendance at the venue. We have no control over it so please plan a backup or bring a hot spot if you need wifi to conduct business.
Where is the event located?
The New York Blood and Ink Tattoo & Horror Con is located at the Westchester County Center 198 Central Avenue. White Plains, NY 10606.
It is centrally located to 287 and many other highways and easily accessible by NYC, NJ, CT, PA, and MA. Travel is easy via public transportation or by car.
Metro North trains drop off from Grand Central right in the parking lot and a large number of Bee-Line busses stop there as well.
For a map and further details please check the Hotel and Travel page.
Are there Hotels near by?
There are many local places to stay ranging from motels to 5 star hotels. We usually have a discounted room block with a special convention rate at the Sonesta and or Cambria Suites in White Plains. You can find more information on the Hotel and Travel page.
The busy downtown White Plains nightlife is right down the street from the hotel and stays busy until 4am with plenty of bars, food, and activities to keep you busy after the convention.
Can I Cosplay at the event?
Not only is it allowed we encourage it. Feel free to dress up as your favorite or original character. We welcome everyone whether you are using a homemade costume, a store bought costume, or a custom costume you spent years perfecting.
Please do not bring any real weapons with you as they will be confiscated at the door, we want everyone to have a fun and safe time.
What is your harassment policy?
We have zero tolerance for harassment. If you feel someone is being harassed, harassing you, or making you feel uncomfortable please alert a staff member and they will deal with the issue. We are an inclusive event and want everyone to have a safe, fun, and comfortable time.
What is your ADA policy?
Our venue is accessible with ramps from outside and ramps / elevators available to access all areas and floors of the building.
If an attendee has a disability and needs special access during the event please visit the customer service booth or box office and we will help with accommodations. We are an inclusive event and want everyone to feel safe and comfortable.
What is the schedule?
The full schedule will be posted in the show info section closer to the event date.
Celebrity Guests
What happens if a guest cancels?
We do not anticipate any guests canceling but sometimes filming obligations, schedule changes, or sickness do come up and a guest cannot make an event.
If for some reason a guest cancels you will receive a full refund for any Autographs or Photo ops purchased for that specific guest but there are no refunds on tickets to the event.
What items will guests sign?
Generally a guest will be happy to sign any item you bring with you, as well as the variety of items they have available at their tables. It is best to check with each guest for exceptions or specifics.
Will Guests take photos at their table?
Generally most guests will take photos both at their booth and Pro Photo ops but some guests will only be available via Pro Photo ops. It is best to check with each guest for exceptions.
What is the cost for autographs and photos?
Some guests may sign or take photos free of charge but most charge a fee that is determined by the guests and their management. If we receive the rates ahead of time we will post them but we have no control over what guests charge.
Selfies are generally available for purchase at each guests table and Pro Photo Ops will be available for purchase at the Pro Photo Booth which come with an 8 x 10 professionally shot glossy print of your photo which also makes a great item to get signed!
Media/Press and Volunteers
How can I apply for a Media/Press Pass?
All press requests must be made in by filling out the application in the show info section of the navigation bar and will be granted at our discretion.
In general, press passes will only be granted to official members of the press able to produce official press credentials or those with a large and event relevant social media presence.
If approved you will receive further information.
How can I volunteer to work the convention or work with the celebrity guests?
Please fill out the Volunteer Application in the Show Info section of the navigation bar above. If approved you will receive further information.