Record Store Day 2026 tips, FAQs and what to expect.

Record Store Day 2026 tips, FAQs and what to expect.

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Record Store Day 2026: Everything You Need to Know (FAQs Answered)

Record Store Day is one of the biggest days of the year for vinyl collectors, music fans, and independent record stores. Whether this is your first RSD or you’re a seasoned line-waiting pro, here’s everything you need to know about Record Store Day 2026, how it works, and how to get the records you’re after.

How Do You Get Records on Record Store Day?

To purchase official Record Store Day releases, you’ll need to visit a participating independent record store in person on Record Store Day. Most stores open early and lines often form hours before doors open—especially for highly limited or in-demand titles.

Record Store Day is first come, first served. Stores are not allowed to hold or reserve RSD exclusives in advance, so arriving early with a plan is key.

How Do You Shop on Record Store Day?

Here are a few tips to make your Record Store Day 2026 experience smooth and stress-free:

Make a list
Check the official Record Store Day 2026 release list ahead of time and prioritize your must-haves.

Find a participating store
Use the Record Store Day store locator to find shops near you. If you’re in Colorado — we’ve got you covered 😉

Get there early
Popular releases go fast. Early birds absolutely get the rare worms.

Follow store rules
Every store has its own RSD system. Some hand out number tickets, others allow free browsing once doors open.

Be respectful
Everyone’s there for the love of music. Be patient, be cool, and enjoy the vibe. As we like to say: Be groovy or leave, man.

Do People Camp Out for Record Store Day?

Yes — camping out is very real. For high-demand titles or well-known shops, customers may line up late at night or in the early morning hours. If there’s a release you really want, plan accordingly. 

Pro tips:

  • Bring snacks and water

  • A lawn chair helps

  • Headphones, podcasts, or playlists make the wait easier

  • Please no loud speakers during the overnight hours
  • Bring anything you need to stay comfortable, warm and dry but note, you can't bring any of it in the store. Please put chairs, blankets, bags etc... back in your car right before we open. No pets, food, drinks, bags, backpacks etc... are allowed in the store on RSD.
  • We will be renting a port-a-pottie again this year to have on site in the parking lot. 

What Time Should I Get to the Store?

It depends on your wishlist.

  • Highly limited or hyped titles: Arrive 2+ (minimum) hours before opening

  • Mid-level demand: About an hour early may be fine

  • Smaller or quieter stores: You might not need to arrive as early, but earlier is always safer

Sold Out Vinyl Records – Record Store Day 2026 Info

Our shop opens at 6:00 AM on Record Store Day.

In previous years, we’ve seen our first customers arrive as early as the day before, with lines reaching 200+ people by opening. Historically, we’ve been able to help a large portion of early customers secure at least one item from their wishlist. We get thousands of titles so do not lose hope if you see hundreds of people in line, it's totally normal. 

6am: doors open with all of the 350+ titles ordered! We're expecting thousands of vinyl on hand as we order multiple of the top titles. A big line does not mean you're going to miss out, we get thousands and thousands of releases to sell. In 2025 we had 250 copies of our top selling item (Taylor) and it lasted for over 3 days.

6-9am: Live Vinyl DJ set by Permanent Phase Vinyl
10am-1pm: Live DJ set by TBD
2pm: Live band set by The Far Reaches

📍 Sold Out Vinyl Records
3751 South Broadway
Englewood, CO
Two blocks south of Hampden on the west side of Broadway

We offer a large, secure private parking lot, with additional overflow parking available on Broadway. Parking is free in our lot and on Broadway.

What Is a Record Store Day Release?

A Record Store Day release is a special, limited-edition product made specifically for RSD. These often include:

  • Exclusive vinyl color variants

  • Previously unreleased recordings

  • Live albums

  • Special reissues with unique packaging

Some RSD titles are also released on CD or cassette, but vinyl remains the main focus. Quantities are limited and availability varies by store.

Can Record Store Day Exclusives Be Repressed?

Sometimes — but not always. Record Store Day releases typically fall into a few categories:

RSD Exclusives
Only available on Record Store Day and usually not repressed.

RSD First
Debuts on RSD, but may receive a wider release later.

Small-run or regional titles
Limited pressings that may be reissued, though often not in the same format or color.

Bottom line: if you really want a title, it’s best to grab it on Record Store Day.

Can I Buy Record Store Day Releases Online?

Not on Record Store Day itself.

To protect the in-store experience, Record Store Day rules prevent stores from selling RSD exclusives online on the day of the event. However, leftover inventory is typically made available online the following day (Sunday).

Sold Out Vinyl Records Online RSD Sale

Our Record Store Day 2026 online sale will take place the day after Record Store Day. Remaining inventory will be listed on our website once online sales are permitted. CLICK HERE to view available 2026 products.

Still Have Questions?

Record Store Day is all about supporting independent record stores, discovering new music, and having a great time with fellow vinyl lovers.

If you have questions about Record Store Day 2026, shopping in-store, or buying leftover RSD titles online, check out our social media accounts. We post daily leading up to the event.

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