Record Store Day 2025 is just around the corner, and for music lovers and vinyl collectors, this is the most exciting date on the calendar. It's not just another Saturday—it's a global celebration of independent record stores, rare releases, and the magic of music on wax. This year, the event has been moved up a bit, landing on April 12, since the usual third Saturday in April overlaps with a bank holiday in many places. So if you're planning to make the trip to your local shop, mark your calendar now and get ready for the haul of a lifetime.

Record Store Day started back in 2007, when a bunch of passionate store owners and employees got together and decided to do something special to keep the spirit of physical music alive. Over the years, it's grown into a worldwide phenomenon, with hundreds of stores participating each year. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just discovering the joys of vinyl, there’s always something new to find, someone to chat with, and a story to uncover.

And this year is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. From exclusive pressings to live recordings and rare box sets, Record Store Day 2025 promises some incredible finds. With the official list already out, you can start planning your shopping list, checking which stores are carrying which releases, and maybe even lining up early—because once these go, they're gone.

• David Draiman

Table of Contents

• What's Changing in 2025?
• What to Expect from Record Store Day 2025
• Top Vinyl Releases to Watch For
• Where to Find Record Store Day Deals
• Tips for Making the Most of Your Day
• Frequently Asked Questions

What's Changing in 2025?

So, why the shift to April 12 this year? Well, the third Saturday in April usually works pretty well for Record Store Day, but 2025 is a bit of an exception. That date falls during a bank holiday weekend in a lot of countries, which means stores might be closed or have limited hours. Since the whole point of Record Store Day is to bring people together in person, organizers decided to move it up a bit to keep the event accessible for everyone.

It’s not the first time the date has shifted slightly—sometimes they move it for holidays or special events—but this change is pretty significant for a lot of collectors and fans. The good news? April 12 still falls in spring, so the weather should be nice in most places, making it a great time to hit the stores and enjoy the vibe of a community coming together for something they love.

And if you're new to the whole Record Store Day thing, here's the deal: it's not just about buying records. It’s about the experience. It’s about chatting with store owners, meeting fellow fans, and maybe even catching a live performance or two while you're there. That part doesn’t change, no matter what date it lands on.

• Noah Lalonde Et Nikki Rodriguez En Couple

What to Expect from Record Store Day 2025

So what exactly goes down on Record Store Day? For starters, you can expect hundreds of independent record shops around the world opening their doors early and welcoming fans with exclusive releases, limited-edition pressings, and special in-store events. Some stores might even have live music, guest appearances, or giveaways, so it's worth checking with your local shop to see what they’ve got planned.

The official list of Record Store Day 2025 releases has already dropped, so you can start planning your must-have picks now. This year’s lineup includes everything from reissues of classic albums to brand-new recordings pressed on colored vinyl, and even some live shows that have never been released before. And because these items are only available at participating stores, you can’t just order them online after the fact—so if you want one, you’ve got to show up in person.

Some of the most exciting items this year include a 4-LP box set from the Grateful Dead, a special live recording from Yes, and even a collaborative single featuring George Harrison and Beck. These kinds of releases are what makes Record Store Day so special—they’re not just limited, they’re meaningful. They connect fans to artists, to history, and to each other in a way that digital music just can’t replicate.

Top Vinyl Releases to Watch For

Let’s talk about the real star of Record Store Day: the music. Here are a few of the most anticipated releases for Record Store Day 2025 that you’ll want to keep an eye out for:

• George Harrison & Beck – “Be Here Now”: This is the official Record Store Day 2025 Song of the Year. It pairs Harrison’s iconic track with a brand-new cover version by Beck. Available on a special vinyl pressing, this one’s going to be a collector’s item for sure.
• Grateful Dead – On a Back Porch Vol. 1: This 4-LP set is a must-have for Deadheads. It features a complete live performance recorded at The Rainbow in London in December 1972. Never officially released before, this one’s a real gem.
• Yes – Close to the Edge Live: This one’s for prog rock fans. It’s a complete live recording of Yes performing their groundbreaking album in its entirety. It’s being pressed on yellow vinyl exclusively for Record Store Day.
• Various Artists – Indie Gems Compilation: A limited-edition compilation featuring some of today’s most exciting indie acts. This is a great way to discover new music and support independent labels.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The full list is available online, so you can start browsing and planning your shopping list now. Some stores will even let you reserve items in advance, so it’s worth checking ahead of time.

Where to Find Record Store Day Deals

Record Store Day 2025 will be happening at over 260 record stores across the country, and thousands more worldwide. You can find a full list of participating stores on the official Record Store Day website. Some stores might offer online ordering for certain items, but most of the special releases are only available in person, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

If you're not sure where to start, check with your local independent record shop. They might be carrying exclusive titles or hosting events that aren’t listed anywhere else. And if you're traveling, you might want to make a stop at a few different stores to increase your chances of finding those rare gems.

Also, some stores may open early, so if you’re after the most sought-after items, you’ll probably want to line up before doors open. It’s not uncommon to see fans camping out overnight—though that might be a bit extreme for most people.

And don’t forget to ask store staff for recommendations or hidden finds. They often know which releases are flying off the shelves and might even have a few personal favorites they can point you to.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

So you’ve got your list, you’ve checked the participating stores, and you’re ready to go. But here are a few extra tips to help you make the most of Record Store Day 2025:

1. Arrive early – Some stores open extra early and the best stuff sells fast. If you’re after specific titles, plan to be there right at the start.
2. Bring a bag or two – You’ll probably end up buying more than you expect, so come prepared.
3. Check online first – Some stores post their stock lists ahead of time or let you reserve items in advance.
4. Chat with the staff – They know the store inside and out and might have some great recommendations or hidden treasures.
5. Enjoy the experience – It’s not just about what you buy—it’s about the whole vibe. So take your time, explore, and enjoy the music.

And if you’re new to the whole vinyl scene, Record Store Day is the perfect time to start. Ask questions, listen to some samples, and maybe even grab a few affordable albums to build your collection. You never know what you might fall in love with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Record Store Day releases online after April 12?

Technically, no. The official rule is that all Record Store Day releases are only available at participating stores on April 12. However, some stores may list their leftover stock online after the event, but these items often sell out quickly and may come at a premium price.

Are all Record Store Day releases limited editions?

Yes. Every item on the official list is a limited edition, meaning once it’s gone, it’s gone. Some titles may be pressed in very small quantities, so if you see something you want, grab it while you can.

How do I find which stores have the releases I want?

Some stores will share their stock lists in advance, and the official Record Store Day website has a store locator tool. You can also reach out directly to your favorite shops and ask what they’ll be carrying.

Ready to get started? Learn more about Record Store Day 2025 and check out the full list of releases on the official website. And if you're looking for more tips on where to go and what to buy, be sure to check out Ferndale Radio’s guide to Record Store Day 2025 here for even more details.