Oak Park’s record shops are more than music shops — they’re cultural institutions where history, culture and sound meet.
Val’s halla Records will celebrate its 54th anniversary on July 26 and 27 with its annual event, hala-Palooza. The celebration will feature live music all day, special record sales and drink specials.
“We actually have a liquor license as well, so we sell beer, wine, and cocktails — including our own beer, which is made by a great local partner, a brewery called Kinslahger Brewing Company,” Val’s halla Records owner Trevor Toppen said.
Val Camilletti, who founded the store in 1972, was a beloved figure in Oak Park and a cornerstone of the local music community. She helped shape musical tastes for generations and created a welcoming space where people could gather and connect.
“John Prine, who’s one of the greatest folk artists of all time, used to bring in his new albums for her to listen to and give feedback on. When she passed away in 2018, he came and held a memorial in the store to celebrate her. There’s just a lot of great history here,” Toppen said.
Toppen notes the venue is deeply connected to the local music scene, particularly with young and emerging musicians, thanks to its live stage. It offers a rare opportunity for under-21 artists to perform, unlike many other venues in the area and the city that have age restrictions.
Oak Park Records is another record store that was established in 2004 by a local couple who purchased an existing record store. Over the past two decades, they’ve poured their passion into the business.
When asked what sets Oak Park Records apart from other record stores in the area, Oak Park Records owner Alan Heffelfinger notes the affordability.
“Without a doubt, I’ve had customers tell me — and I know myself — that we have cheaper prices than most other stores in the area and the city. People come here for the great selection and great deals. They know, “Hey, this record is $20 at Oak Park Records, but if I were downtown at Reckless, it would be $35,” Heffelfinger said.
Besides the store’s affordability, the selection of music offered to customers is essential to Heffelfinger.
“What I’m doing for the community is offering a wide selection of music across all genres, from all over the world and the United States. It’s exciting to see one person in line buy a hip-hop record, and the next person buy Celtic stepping music,” Heffelfinger said.