Record Store Day 2026 | Limited Editions, Reissues, and Special Releases

Record Store Day 2026 is a celebration of vinyl culture and independent retail, with rare and reissued albums available only in-store for one day. Expect long queues, community vibes, and unforgettable finds.

Event Summary: One of the UK’s most anticipated music retail events returns with exclusive vinyl drops, in-store gigs, and nationwide participation – keeping vinyl alive in the digital era.

• Date: Saturday, 18 April 2026
• Shops Involved: Over 300 UK and Ireland indie retailers
• Top Artists: Bowie, Muse, The Cure, Paramore, Suede, Fleetwood Mac
• Special Editions: Charity vinyls supporting War Child UK
• Online Sales Start: Monday, 20 April at 8 PM BST (only unsold stock)

This summary offers a quick snapshot of what to expect, how to prepare, and where to shop for Record Store Day 2026 across the UK.

What Is Record Store Day 2026 and Why Is It Important?

Founded in 2008, Record Store Day (RSD) began as a grassroots celebration of the independent record store ecosystem. Today, it’s a global phenomenon. Across the UK, over 300 independent record shops will unite on 18th April 2026 for the 19th edition of RSD.

It’s not just a commercial event, it’s a cultural one. Record Store Day has become a lifeline for small music retailers, helping them compete in an increasingly digital market. More than just selling vinyl, these stores offer physical spaces where music lovers gather, discover new sounds, and support local scenes.

Last year saw UK vinyl sales hit 7.5 million units, according to the Digital Entertainment and Retail Association (ERA), the highest since the 1990s. RSD continues to drive this resurgence, spotlighting the tangible, collectable value of music in the digital age.

When and Where Is Record Store Day 2026 Happening?

Mark your calendar: Saturday, 18 April 2026 is the official date for Record Store Day 2026 in the UK and Ireland. This year, over 300 independent record stores will be participating in this nationwide celebration of vinyl culture.

The event spans across all corners of the UK, from iconic stores like Rough Trade East in London, Sister Ray in Soho, and Banquet Records in Kingston, to independent gems in cities like Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Glasgow, and Belfast.

Each shop brings its own character to the event, offering different selections, community vibes, and exclusive activities.

To make planning easier, fans can use the official Record Store Day Store Locator, which lists all participating shops and their event details.

“It’s not just about the records,” shared a Rough Trade staff member. “It’s about being part of something bigger, the community, the excitement, the vibe. You feel it the moment you walk through the door.”

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the vinyl scene, there’s a local shop near you ready to welcome you into this musical celebration.

Which Artists Are Releasing Exclusive Vinyl in 2026?

Every year, Record Store Day curates a lineup of limited-run vinyl releases from global icons, cult favourites, and fresh voices. For RSD 2026, the list is particularly diverse and exciting, spanning decades of music and genres, from rock legends to pop innovators.

Over 400 special edition releases have been announced, each one crafted to appeal to both collectors and casual listeners. These include coloured vinyl, long-out-of-print reissues, anniversary editions, soundtrack releases, and unreleased material.

Major Highlights from the 2026 Vinyl Line-Up

Here are just a few standout titles collectors will be chasing this year:

• David Bowie – Hallo Spaceboy: A neon pink 12” featuring B-sides from the 1.Outside era
• The Cure – Acoustic Hits & Greatest Hits: 2xLP limited pressings in classic black and colour editions
• Fleetwood Mac – The Original Fleetwood Mac: A reissue of early blues recordings, pressed on heavyweight vinyl
• Muse – Muscle Museum & S/T EP: Rare early releases making their long-awaited return on vinyl
• Suede – Coming Up at the BBC: A BBC Session recording pressed on pink vinyl
• Charli XCX – Party 4U: The first-ever 7” vinyl release of this fan-favourite track
• CMAT – Diet Baby: A 12” picture disc from one of the UK’s brightest alt-pop voices
• KPop Demon Hunters – HUNTR/X & Saja Boys Editions: Netflix soundtrack collectors’ edition vinyls

These releases are expected to be among the most in-demand titles, with queues forming hours before opening.

Charity Collaborations for War Child

Continuing the tradition of social impact, Record Store Day 2026 includes 15 charity-linked releases supporting War Child, a UK-based charity aiding children in conflict zones.

For each vinyl sold, £1 will be donated to the charity. This initiative allows fans to directly contribute to a meaningful cause through their purchases.

Featured titles include:

• Bring Me The Horizon & Sigrid – Bad Life
• Primal Scream – Echo Dek
• The Cure, The Streets, Kaiser Chiefs, Corinne Bailey Rae, and Divorce

Altogether, this powerful mix of iconic artists, rare vinyl pressings, and charity-led releases supporting War Child makes Record Store Day 2026 one of the most anticipated and meaningful vinyl events for collectors and music fans alike.

What Are the Must-Have Records This Year?

Every year, certain Record Store Day titles capture the imagination and wallets of collectors and fans alike. Whether it’s a rare reissue, a limited-run coloured pressing, or a long-awaited live session, these releases become the centrepiece of many collections.

Top 10 Must-Have RSD 2026 Releases

Many of these pressings are highly limited and won’t be reissued, which adds to their desirability. Expect them to sell out quickly, with some already commanding attention on collector forums and social media in the lead-up to RSD.

How Does Record Store Day Work in the UK?

The unique setup of Record Store Day UK ensures that the event remains accessible, exciting, and fair for all participants. Its in-person-only format until the online sale date preserves the magic of crate-digging, discovery, and community connection.

Key Guidelines to Know:

• No pre-orders or reservations are allowed in any form
• One copy per customer per title to prevent hoarding and reselling
• First-come, first-served; early arrival is essential
• Most shops open at 8 AM BST, but queues start much earlier

To maintain order during the initial rush, many stores, particularly larger ones, employ a wishlist system, where you hand over a list of your top picks, and the staff collect what’s available.

“You won’t always get everything on your list,” a veteran fan noted, “but the buzz, the queue chat, the hope that’s what makes the day.”

If it’s your first RSD, arrive early, bring a pen, and come prepared with a list of must-haves. Most importantly, enjoy the experience beyond the purchase.

Are There Any Live Events or In-Store Performances?

Yes, and they’re often the highlight of the day. Many UK shops embrace the festival spirit of Record Store Day 2026 by transforming their spaces into mini-venues, cultural hubs, and social spaces for the day.

What to Expect In-Store?

• Live performances from both established artists and emerging local talent
• DJ sets spinning exclusive RSD releases and deep vinyl cuts
• RSD-themed merch giveaways like totes, stickers, and badges
• Fun extras including vinyl quizzes, signings, photo booths, and more

Special Installations at Flagship Locations

• Live-to-lathe vinyl recordings – see a song cut straight to disc in real-time
• Personal shopping services – especially helpful for large crowds
• Community chill-out zones – featuring food, coffee, and comfortable areas to relax

In places like Rough Trade East, these events draw hundreds of visitors not just for the records, but for the vibrant, shared experience that celebrates music in all its forms.

Can You Buy RSD Releases Online?

Yes, you can buy Record Store Day (RSD) releases online, but timing and preparation are crucial. To protect the in-store experience, RSD titles are held back from online sale until the official in-store exclusivity period ends. If you can’t attend in person, online retailers usually release any remaining stock later that evening.

For Record Store Day 2026, online sales are expected to begin from 8 PM BST on Monday, 20 April 2026. Availability is often very limited, and not every title makes it online, so speed matters.

Online Sale Info for RSD 2026

Participating UK retailers may include Rough Trade, Banquet Records, Resident Music, and Drift Records.
Pro tip: set reminders, create accounts early, and keep your wishlist ready to move fast.

How Is Record Store Day Supporting Charities in 2026?

Beyond rare vinyl and exclusive pressings, Record Store Day 2026 carries a strong philanthropic purpose through its continued partnership with War Child UK.

Fifteen RSD-exclusive titles are contributing £1 from each sale directly to the charity, helping provide:

• Education and support services
• Mental health care
• Emergency relief for children affected by war

Artists involved in the charity releases include major names such as The Cure, Sigrid, The Streets, and Primal Scream, who’ve all donated titles that blend music with meaning.

The initiative underscores a vital message: through music, we can make a positive impact beyond ourselves, contributing to change on a global scale, one vinyl at a time.

Why Has Vinyl Made a Comeback in the UK?

Once considered a nostalgic relic, vinyl has firmly re-established itself as a mainstream format, particularly in the UK. In fact, 2025 saw vinyl sales reach over 7.5 million units, with continued year-on-year growth.

What’s driving this revival?

• The rich, warm sound that digital formats struggle to replicate
• The physicality and design of records, album art, sleeves, and inserts
• The joy of slowing down and listening intentionally
• A renewed appreciation of tangible ownership in a digital world

For younger listeners especially, vinyl offers a break from the algorithm, letting them discover albums on their own terms. It’s part rebellion, part romance, and Record Store Day sits at the heart of this resurgence.

Whether you’re a die-hard crate-digger or a new collector picking up your first LP, vinyl’s comeback is built on experience, community, and a love for music that endures across generations.

Final Thoughts on Record Store Day 2026

Record Store Day 2026 is more than a shopping event; it’s a celebration of physical music culture, a rally for independent retailers, and a moment of collective joy for fans across the UK.

Whether you’re hunting rare gems, soaking in a live performance, or simply reconnecting with the art of the album, this year’s RSD promises to be unforgettable.

Prepare your wishlist, wake up early, and support your local record shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time should I arrive at my local shop on RSD 2026?

Many fans queue before 6 AM. Shops open at 8 AM, but arriving early increases your chance of securing top releases.

Can I pre-order or reserve an RSD release?

No. All releases are strictly first-come, first-served. This keeps the experience fair and exciting.

Will online sales have the same selection?

Only leftover stock goes online from Monday, 20 April. Some high-demand titles may sell out in-store only.

Are RSD releases available worldwide?

Yes, but each country has its own version of the list. The UK list may differ from the US or EU editions.

How do I know which shops are participating?

Use the official store locator on the Record Store Day UK website to find your nearest shop.

Can I bring someone with me to the queue?

Yes, but most stores have one-customer-per-purchase rules. Queueing in groups is allowed, but won’t guarantee extra stock.

What makes a Record Store Day pressing different?

RSD releases are often exclusive pressings, colour variants, remixes, live recordings, or anniversary reissues that won’t be mass-produced.