Palm Trees and Tattoos Convention kicks off
The second annual Palm Trees and Tattoos Convention kicked off on Friday and runs through the weekend.
Hundreds of people are expected to get some ink at the Hard Rock Hotel.
“This is just a flower to cap off my leg sleeve, it really doesn’t have any meaning, it’s just beautiful,” said Lara Ashton of Redlands, who will be competing in a tattoo competition.
Along with tattoos, there are also live DJs, models, and screen printing demonstrations.
“It’s a comradery of artists that get together and have a good time over the weekend, and it’s almost like a mini vacation for us even though we are working,” said Christian Marek, a tattoo artist.
Local tattoo artists in Palm Springs had a small victory this week. The planning commission proposed to rezone some areas to allow more places where tattoo parlors can open, but it didn’t include the downtown strip.
“There is no need for real tattooing to be pushed off to the side streets and the corners, we are all having a good time here,” said Sean Wood who has been fighting for zoning changes for 5 years. “We are all making connections and making money its a really positive thing and I wish they could see that,” said Wood.
The proposed changes to the zoning code will head to the Palm Springs City Council.
Also downtown, the Mongols are having their yearly meeting at the Hilton Palm Springs, which is a stones throw from the Hard Rock.
But the bikers won’t be allowed to enter the event while wearing their vests. An increased police and security presence can seen downtown.
“We have an event this weekend, this isn’t the first time this event has taken place in the Palm Springs, we are adequately prepared to address any issues that may arise,” said Lt. Mike Kovaleff with the Palm Spring Police Department.
Tickets for Palm Trees and Tattoos can be purchased at the door for $35.
