The Inkcarceration Festival, held annually in Mansfield, Ohio, is a unique music and tattoo festival that combines rock, punk, and heavy metal music with a celebration of tattoo culture. It began in 2018, quickly establishing itself as one of the most exciting and unusual music festivals in the U.S. The event’s location, the historic Ohio State Reformatory, adds a distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from other festivals.

The Ohio State Reformatory, the festival’s venue, is renowned for its Gothic architecture and storied past. It was operational from 1896 to 1990, housing some of the state’s most notorious criminals. Its imposing structure has also made it a popular filming location, notably for the 1994 film *The Shawshank Redemption*. The eerie ambiance of the former prison provides an unforgettable backdrop for the festival, merging music, history, and culture in a way that pays homage to the darker, rebellious side of rock and roll.

Inkcarceration Festival showcases a wide range of rock music, from alternative to classic and heavy metal. Over the years, the lineup has featured major acts like Slipknot, Korn, Rob Zombie, and Evanescence. The festival is a three-day event that draws tens of thousands of fans, offering not just music but also a massive tattoo convention, prison tours, and horror-themed attractions, creating a multi-sensory experience.

In addition to its musical and cultural offerings, Inkcarceration Festival has become a space where attendees can explore themes of rebellion, freedom, and self-expression, all within the walls of a once-forbidding penitentiary turned into a celebration of art and music.