Hardly, the word tattoo has its origins in the word tap, which means to put the taps back in the beer barrels and close up the pub. It is now used to mean to organise a well lit musical arrangement for military bands and parades.

The first Ystad International Military Tattoo was held in 1999.

Some of the world’s most renowned military bands are participating during the four days in August when Ystad International Military Tattoo is held on the main square of the old Ystad regiment.

Visitors are invited to listen to concerts as well as enjoy demonstrations, exhibitions and other events. There are  evening concerts and a family concert. 

The Ystad Tattoo is now one of the most celebrated tattoos in Europe and is named with respect by the most famous tattoo of the all, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a fact that makes it easy to get the best military bands to come to Ystad and participate.