So Long, Goodie Bags – Flavorful Flash Tattoos Are All the Rage

The general popularity of tattoos continues to rise to the surprise of exactly no one. And now that we’ve (mostly) moved on from the not-so-temporary-tattoo phase, a new ink trend is making itself known: the souvenir flash tattoo.

Flash tattoos are now a hit party favor at many major events, often replacing traditional goodie bags. Brands like Omsom and Eater offer pre-drawn designs for attendees to choose from, often subtly reflecting the event's theme or brand ethos. But anyone going to any sort of public event—at least in a major metro area—is likely to stumble upon a flash tattoo setup; collaborations between businesses or organizations and tattoo artists for special event programming are as common now as catered meals.

This trend reflects a broader acceptance of tattoos in American culture, serving as a fun and spontaneous form of self-expression. It also seems like a clear branching out from the typical flash tattoo traditions, like Friday the 13th specials.  

Oftentimes, part of the fun is not knowing what the designs will be until you show up and snag a time slot. But many artists will reveal a “flash sheet” beforehand with set sizing, pricing and placement, so visitors need only add their name to a waitlist before walking home with a party favor that lasts, well, forever. Just keep in mind before you get too ink-happy that maybe you don’t need to cherish that one vintage clothing swap for the rest of your natural life. Or maybe you do. Who are we to judge?