Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention

Friday, April 10th: 2:00 p.m. - Midnight Saturday, April 11th: 11:00 a.m. - Midnight Sunday, April 12th: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. The 6th annual Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention returns to EMC Expo Center, April 10-12. This one-of-a-kind event features nearly 300 of the best tattoo artists from all around the country, with special guests including Ink Masters Judge and 3x winner, DJ Tombe, Teresa Shorpe, Sydney Dryer, Dave Koenig, and more. The weekend includes live tattooing, live music, and prizes for over 20 tattoo competitions for all to enter. They will also crown Miss Middle of the Map 2026 in Des Moines’ Premier Pinup Competition.