In photos - A small sneak peek at the NS International Tattoo

The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is back June 27 – July 1, 2025!

Q. How long is the Tattoo?

A. The Tattoo runs 2.5 hours with a 20-minute intermission.

Q. What are the dates of the Tattoo? A. The 2025 Tattoo runs from June 27^th to July 1^st, one show per day.

Q. What time is the show?

A. Matinees begin at 2:00 pm; evening shows begin at 7:00 pm.

Q. Is it the same show every time? A. Yes, the show remains unchanged throughout the run.

Q. How early should I arrive?

A. The doors open an hour before show time, so please allow yourself time to show your ticket, stop at our merch booths, get refreshments, and find your seats before the show begins.

Q. What do I need to know about the Scotiabank Centre? A. You can find all the information you need here.

Q. If I missed the matinee, can I still get tickets for that evening’s show?

A. There is only one show each day.

Q. Who’s in the show?

A. We’ll have more details soon on cast for the 2025 Tattoo!

Q. Is the show loud?

A. The host will let you know before the show begins if you should anticipate any loud noises.

We advise that you bring earplugs or headphones for small children as there are loud cannon and gun blasts periodically.

Q. Should I dress up?

A. That’s entirely up to you as there is no formal dress code. Though most audience members are dressed casually, there are those who wear kilts or tartan to honour their heritage; and those who wear suits/dresses, or military uniforms to show their respect to those serving.

Q. I know someone attending the Tattoo who’ll be celebrating their birthday/anniversary/other special event that day. How do I get a shoutout from the Tattoo host?

A. Unfortunately, we’re unable to share shoutouts during the show, but we’re so happy that you’re celebrating your special moments with us.

However, if you’re attending with someone who has a significant military/first responder story—say, they were involved in the D-Day Landings for example—then we’d want to know. You can email jilse@nstattoo.ca for these requests.

Q. Why are there people with cameras on the floor?

A. They’re our camera crew! We film our show for archival and promotional purposes, and though we try to capture the bulk of this during dress rehearsals or our first show, from time to time there may be additional shooting required. If this is the case, we’ll announce on our website which days the crew will be filming.

Q. Can I watch the Tattoo on television?

A. Stay tuned for updates on how to watch the Tattoo!

Q. Can I watch the Tattoo online?

A. Past editions of the show are available to stream (or will be very soon)! Click here to see a full list of what’s available.

Q. Can I volunteer with the Tattoo?

A. Of course! We’re always looking for fresh volunteers to help out in areas from production to costuming to props and transportation and office support and beyond! Click here to learn more about our volunteer opportunities and to fill out a volunteer application.

Q. What other fun things do you do during Tattoo Week?

A. We have the Tattoo Festival and the Canada Day Parade! We’ll have more details on both in the spring of 2025!

Q. What’s the Tattoo Club? A. The Tattoo Club is our exclusive loyalty program for our most passionate Tattoo audience members. For only $25 (or $20 if you’re an active/retired servicemember, veteran or first responder), you’ll have access to exclusive discounts, promotions, offers and invites from the Tattoo and from local partners.

To learn more about the Tattoo Club and to join, click here.

Q. Can I meet the cast?

A. Yes! After each show, the announcer will invite the audience to come out on the floor to meet the cast. Usually a few representatives from each group will be available to say hello, share more about their groups and take photos!