Today is the second annual Record Store Day. Stores across the country are holding huge sales, giveaways and special in-store entertainment to encourage people to give iTunes a day off and buy some physical music (Remember? CDs? Vinyl?).

In honor of Record Store Day, a number of artists are releasing exclusive special edition singles and EPs. Tom Waits, who is releasing an exclusive limited edition 7” single, explained his appreciation of record stores thusly: “The record store is the livery stable where I can tie up, feed and groom my ears.” Well said.

A number of Bay Area stores are participating, holding giveaways and in-store performances. A few highlights include Amoeba, who will be holding hourly giveaways, a contest to win a turntable package and DJ sets by Aesop Rock and local artists John Vanderslice, Kelly Stoltz and Loquat. Berkeley’s Rasputin will feature a set by the Silversun Pickups at 4PM. Who knows, you might even catch Mr. Waits at a North Bay location…

Looking for ideas about what to buy? Check out our upcoming album release schedule.

Here’s a list of all participating stores in the extended Bay Area with links to the store’s site and record store day profile:

San Francisco

East Bay

North Bay

South Bay

Sacramento/Davis

Beyond