This year, the Virginia Arts Festival’s presentation of the 2025 Virginia International Tattoo will honor the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps.

Members of the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights make their landing during the Army Birthday Twilight Tattoo event at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, June 11, 2025.© AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.

The tattoos are described to be a deep symbol of heritage and identity, and not just body art. Army Captain Isis Sake says, "Our tattoos have a spiritual connection have that religious connection.