National Tattoo Story Day

National Tattoo Story Day is a celebration of the personal stories behind tattoos. Observed on September 16th since 2015, this day highlights that tattoos are often more than just a way to stand out—they can honor significant life events and deeply personal experiences.

History

Tattooing is an ancient art that dates back roughly 100,000–60,000 years. People have decorated their bodies with markings for many reasons: to signify tribal belonging, express individuality, or provide spiritual strength.

The word “tattoo” as we know it today was popularized by the explorer James Cook after his visits to the Polynesian Islands. There, he encountered the term “tatau,” which translates literally to “drawing.”

Tattooing spread widely in the United States during the 1940s. Norman Keith Collins, a war veteran, combined tattooing knowledge from around the world and created the American tattoo style—small but colorful designs often paired with quotes from movies or books. Blue and red pigments were especially popular.

A tattoo is a way for people to express themselves, memorialize important events, or simply create art. Tattoos can be intricate images, simple drawings, or meaningful words, and every tattoo tells the story of its owner.

Interesting Facts

• Tattoos have been discovered on ancient Egyptian mummies.
• According to some accounts, the Roman emperor Caligula ordered his entourage to get humorous tattoos for his own amusement.
• The modern tattoo machine was invented in 1891 by Samuel O’Reilly, based on Thomas Edison’s electric pen.

How to Take Part

If you’ve always wanted to get a tattoo, National Tattoo Story Day is the perfect opportunity to make your dream come true. You can also visit online forums for tattoo enthusiasts, exchange stories, ask questions, and get inspiration from others.

Share a photo and the story behind your tattoo on social media. Learn more about different tattoo styles online—you might just find your next design!

When is National Tattoo Story Day in 2025?

National Tattoo Story Day is observed on September 16 each year.

Observations