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The History and Tradition of Friday the 13th

The History and Tradition of Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th—an iconic date steeped in superstition and mystery. For many, it’s a day to be extra cautious, a day that holds a sense of foreboding. Yet, in the tattoo world, Friday the 13th is far from unlucky; it’s a day of celebration, creativity, and tradition. Let’s explore the history of this intriguing day and how it has evolved into a widely anticipated event in the tattoo community.


The Superstition Behind Friday the 13th

The fear of the number 13, known as triskaidekaphobia, has existed for centuries. This fear often stems from its historical and cultural associations with bad luck. Many theories attempt to explain why 13 is considered an unlucky number. One popular belief ties it to the ancient Norse mythology, where the trickster god Loki, who was not invited to a banquet of 12 gods, crashed the party and caused chaos. In this tale, Loki was the 13th figure, bringing misfortune with him.

The number 12 has long been seen as a symbol of completeness and order, appearing in many cultural, religious, and natural contexts—12 months in a year, 12 zodiac signs, 12 apostles, etc. So, when the number 13 appears, it disrupts this sense of balance, leading to its association with disorder and misfortune.

As for the specific pairing of Friday with the 13th, the fear stems from a variety of sources. In Christianity, it’s believed that Jesus was crucified on a Friday, and with 13 guests at the Last Supper (the 13th being Judas, the betrayer), the day gained additional connotations of doom. Together, Friday and the 13th have formed a potent blend of superstition, with people traditionally avoiding travel, making major decisions, or getting married on this day, for fear of bad luck.


The Rise of Friday the 13th as Tattoo Day

While the day is considered unlucky in some circles, in the world of tattoos, Friday the 13th is an opportunity for good fortune—and great deals. The tradition of Friday the 13th tattoo events dates back to the early 1990s, with the first significant occurrences reported in the United States. Tattoo shops began to see Friday the 13th as an opportunity to turn a traditionally ominous day into a celebration of art, culture, and community.

The origins of this tattoo tradition are somewhat unclear, but one popular story involves tattoo artist Louis “Tattoo” Romero, who began offering discounted tattoos on Friday the 13th as a fun way to make light of the superstition. The idea quickly gained traction within the tattoo community, and other shops started to hold similar events, offering special designs at low prices—sometimes as cheap as $13—often with the number 13 or other symbols associated with bad luck.

Over time, the tradition evolved. Shops across the country began holding Friday the 13th tattoo parties, where people could get tattoos in celebration of the day, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow tattoo lovers, and embrace the rebellious spirit that tattoos often represent. The designs typically focus on simple, traditional tattoos, including images of black cats, spiders, skulls, and, of course, the number 13 itself. These designs often carry a sense of whimsy, with the goal of celebrating the day’s superstition rather than succumbing to it.


The Tradition of “Tattoo Days” and Its Cultural Impact

Today, Friday the 13th is one of the most anticipated days on the tattoo calendar. Many tattoo studios across the globe will host special Tattoo Days events, offering deals, flash sheets (pre-drawn tattoo designs), and sometimes even raffles or contests. These events can draw hundreds, if not thousands, of people, and they have become a cultural phenomenon.

These Tattoo Days are more than just about cheap ink; they’re about community, tradition, and the artistry of tattoo culture. For many tattoo enthusiasts, Friday the 13th is a way to commemorate their love of body art, bond with other tattoo fans, and take part in a shared experience that transcends superstition. It’s a day that reclaims the number 13, turning what some see as unlucky into a day of celebration.

One key part of the Friday the 13th tradition is the communal aspect. People line up outside tattoo shops before dawn, eager to snag a spot and receive one of the iconic designs. It’s an event that fosters a sense of camaraderie among tattoo collectors, artists, and even those who are just getting their first ink. The process itself often becomes a ritual, with each person taking part in something that has a deeper connection to the cultural significance of tattoos as a form of personal expression.

The tradition of Tattoo Days has also contributed to a shift in the perception of tattoos. While tattoos were once considered taboo or rebellious, these events have helped normalize body art, turning it into a mainstream form of self-expression that people of all walks of life embrace. What was once associated with fringe subcultures is now an accepted and celebrated part of modern society.


What to Expect on Friday the 13th

If you’re planning to participate in the Friday the 13th tattoo tradition, here’s what you can expect:

  1. Discounted Tattoos: Many shops will offer discounted rates, sometimes as low as $13 for a small design, with additional costs for larger tattoos or custom work.
  2. Flash Sheets: Tattoo artists typically create a range of pre-designed flash art specifically for the event. These are often simple, classic tattoo designs, such as black cats, lucky symbols, or, of course, the number 13.
  3. Crowds and Wait Times: Be prepared for long lines. Depending on the popularity of the shop and location, you might find yourself waiting for hours. If you’re hoping to get in on the action, it’s wise to arrive early!
  4. Fun Atmosphere: The energy is often upbeat and festive. Many shops will offer snacks, drinks, and entertainment to keep the crowd in good spirits while they wait. It’s not just about the tattoo; it’s about the experience.
  5. Cash-Only Deals: Many shops will only accept cash for the event, so be sure to check in advance and come prepared with enough funds.

Final Thoughts: Reclaiming the Unlucky Day

What started as a way to inject fun into an otherwise dreaded date has now become a beloved tradition in tattoo culture. Friday the 13th is no longer seen purely as a day of bad luck, but as a chance to celebrate the art, community, and defiance that tattoos represent. Whether you’re superstitious or not, there’s something special about joining in on the tradition and marking the occasion with a bit of ink.

So, the next time Friday the 13th rolls around, consider heading to your local tattoo shop—not to avoid misfortune, but to embrace the creative spirit of this unique tradition. Who knows? Maybe that tattoo will bring you good luck instead.