Rock Monsters Romania

Between August 28 and 30, the buzz of tattoo machines at Berăria H will combine with the explosive energy of E-an-na, Pinkpool, Dora Gaitanovici, Fittonia, and Dimitri’s Bats at the most prestigious tattoo convention in Southeastern Europe!

Between August 28 and 30, 2026, Berăria H will become the heart of urban culture and professional tattooing in Eastern Europe, hosting the 14th edition of INKORA (International Tattoo Convention Bucharest). For three days, hundreds of renowned national and international tattoo artists and piercing professionals will demonstrate how tattooing and extreme body art have moved beyond the boundaries of subcultures, becoming independent artistic categories recognized worldwide.

This year’s event promises a vibrant celebration of visual diversity and contemporary techniques. From the rigor and mathematical precision required by styles such as Japanese Irezumi, Dotwork, and Hyperrealism, to the explosion of color and complete freedom found in Neo Traditional and Watercolor, INKORA offers both the public and professionals a comprehensive perspective on the trends shaping modern body art.

For the event’s founder and organizer, Costi Azoiței (Next Level Tattoos Costi), this edition represents the fulfillment of a dream that began almost two decades ago. After numerous trips across Europe and participation in international conventions, he realized the immense potential of the audience back home.

“In 2009, I started seriously thinking about organizing an event like this in Bucharest. I was impressed by the way large audiences supported those conventions, how people who did not know you would come directly to your booth and get tattoos on the spot. For me, that moment completely changed my perspective on the industry and the community,” says Costi Azoiței.

Driven by the desire for people in Romania to experience an authentic professional event, at a time when people “were already beginning to understand the difference between a tattoo done correctly, responsibly, and artistically, and one done superficially,” Costi Azoiței laid the foundations for what has today become a landmark on the European tattoo convention map.

Looking back on the 17 years since the original idea, the organizer says with emotion that the project grew organically, becoming fully embraced by the public. At this edition, which represents a new level of artistic maturity, INKORA is no longer simply an exhibition space, but a genuine cultural phenomenon.

“Over time, INKORA has gone beyond the idea of a simple tattoo convention. It has become a space for artistic expression, where different styles, generations, and forms of visual art come together. From tattooing to live music, painting, performance, artistic education, and historical education, the event has grown naturally alongside the people who have supported it,” adds the INKORA organizer.

International Guest: Lars Krutak

Among the special guests of this edition is Lars Krutak (USA), one of the most important international figures in the field of tattoo culture research. An anthropologist and acclaimed author known for his studies of traditional tattooing, Krutak has dedicated his career to documenting ancestral practices among Indigenous communities in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and South America.

Known to the general public through the documentary series Tattoo Hunter, broadcast by Discovery Channel, Lars Krutak has made a significant contribution to promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of traditional tattooing, bringing stories, rituals, and iconic artists to international audiences, including the legendary Apo Whang Od from the Philippines.

His presence at the event marks a truly special appearance, with the organizers having pursued the opportunity to bring him to Romania for several years. After numerous attempts and efforts, this meeting is finally becoming possible.

Beyond the buzzing of tattoo machines, the energy of the event will be amplified by a series of captivating side events, including competitions with prizes for artists, spectacular magic shows, impressive acrobatic performances, and interactive encounters with internationally renowned body art performers.

Music Lineup and Live Stage Performances

The visual experience will be complemented throughout the weekend by a diverse live music lineup, bringing together some of the most dynamic projects from Romania’s contemporary music scene.

Friday, August 28: The opening night will bring the explosive energy of E-an-na, whose distinctive sound combines folk and metal influences, alongside Pinkpool, bringing the youthful energy of the emerging nu punk scene.

Saturday, August 29: The stage will host an exceptional alternative show featuring Dora Gaitanovici and Fittonia, two representative names from Romania’s contemporary music scene.

Sunday, August 30: Dimitri’s Bats will take the stage, providing the perfect soundtrack for the final day of the convention and the grand finale, including the awards ceremony celebrating the best tattoo work of the event.

Alongside the live concerts, visitors can expect impressive acrobatic performances, spectacular magic shows, and special appearances designed to make INKORA much more than a traditional tattoo convention.

Today, as thousands of visitors and major names from the global industry come together in the capital, Costi Azoiței proudly concludes: “I am happy that Bucharest has made it onto the international map of major events dedicated to professional tattooing.”

Useful Information, Tickets, and Appointments

Tickets and three day passes are available online at special Presale prices:

One day ticket: 45 lei

Three day pass: 120 lei

Tickets can be purchased online through yellowtickets.ro or directly at the venue entrance during the event, subject to availability.

Appointments and direct contact: Contact details for tattoo artists, their portfolios, as well as information about prices and appointments for tattoos carried out directly at the convention are available on the official website: TattooConvention.ro.