Record stores are home to music lovers everywhere and on June 12 we recognize the owners and employees that keep them alive.

National Record Store Day was founded in 2007 to bring awareness to independent record stores across the United States. According to the Record Store Day website, there are around 1400 independent record stores in the states (Record Store Day). Artists, owners, and music lovers come together on this special day to celebrate music culture. Sometimes artists will celebrate by releasing limited edition vinyl and CDs. The celebration can be found to include meet and greets, parties, and more.

Throughout the year the National Record Store Day organization works with independent and major stores to create special promotional events to shine a spotlight on them. Starting in 2016 National Record Store Day grew past the one-day celebration with similar events like their Summer Camp and Making Vinyl Conference (Record Store Day). These events bring independent stores in contact with a variety of labels and distributors to grow their inventory and business.

To celebrate National Record Day, don’t forget to check out the official website for details on the event. You can also visit the website to see what record stores near you are participating in the day. Locations as close as Concord and Walnut Creek are participating members of the National Record Day so don’t miss out on their special promotions. Go back to the roots of music and recognize the independent stores the keep music culture alive.