Pennsylvania Music Expo Surpasses 500 Shows, Attracts Global Collectors to Lancaster County

Nestled in a peaceful part of Lancaster County, a musical heritage spanning almost 50 years remains vibrant—not through amplifiers or grand performances, but via stacks of vinyl records, exclusive collectibles, and a group of dedicated enthusiasts.

The Pennsylvania Music Festival, organized by Keystone Record Collectors It conducted its 508th gathering in East Petersburg on Sunday.

The non-profit organization has been hosting the event every second Sunday of each month since then. 4 Six years old, which makes it among the most enduring events of its type in the area—and has become a worldwide hub for music enthusiasts and vinyl collectors.

We believed the show would disappear around five or six years ago since vinyl records were losing popularity," explained Derek Shaw, who oversees the nonprofit organization. "However, there was a revival, and fans returned.

The exhibition showcases almost 40 sellers, providing an array of items ranging from traditional LPs and CDs to rare posters, signed memorabilia, and old-timey collectibles. It's a treasure hunter's dream, drawing more than just regional enthusiasts.

We have individuals who travel to the U.S. for a week or two, joining us as part of their tour," Shaw said. "They either begin or conclude their journey here, but this performance is consistently on their agenda.

People have come from places like Japan and Germany, attracted by the chance to discover unique items and the event's solid standing among vinyl enthusiasts worldwide.

Due to its non-profit designation, entry is always complimentary—something Shaw mentions helps maintain the event’s accessibility and emphasizes enthusiasm rather than financial gain.

We aren't aiming for significant profits," Shaw stated. "Our main objective is to reach equilibrium, cover our costs, and ensure a positive experience for those attending.

For long-time sellers such as Jack Supplee, it goes beyond just the recordings – it's about the individuals and the narratives connected to them.

It's enjoyable," Supplee remarked. "I enjoy interacting with individuals, and I appreciate discussing music and everything related to the performance with those who have the recordings.

Regardless of whether you're an experienced collector or new to collecting records, organizers state that the event has something for all, and it continues to become more popular.

The upcoming Pennsylvania Music Expo will take place on Sunday, August 10, at the East Petersburg Community Center. The event starts at 9 a.m., with entry available at no cost.