Crooked Beat Records Will Open New Del Ray Location
The independent record store reopens in a two-story townhouse after leaving its previous basement location.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Crooked Beat Records is set to open its new storefront at 2101B Mount Vernon Avenue on September 25, 2026. This move follows the closure of the store's previous basement location in May after significant flooding caused damages.
Why it matters
The relocation allows the business to recover after an estimated $60,000 loss in merchandise earlier this year. Community support played a critical role in the transition, with a GoFundMe campaign successfully raising $23,500 to assist with the reopening.
The new 950-square-foot location occupies a two-story townhouse that remained vacant for more than a decade. The store originally debuted in Raleigh, N.C., in 1997 and first arrived in the Del Ray neighborhood in 2023.
The players
Crooked Beat Records
This independent music retailer specializes in vinyl records and has operated across several locations since its founding in 1997.
Mobius Records
This competing record store is located at 2016 Mount Vernon Avenue in the Del Ray neighborhood.
The details
The new space at 2101B Mount Vernon Avenue marks a fresh start for the retailer after it was forced to vacate its former site at 2417 Mount Vernon Avenue. The transition follows a challenging period for the shop, which had operated in the Del Ray area since 2023.
Timeline
1997: Crooked Beat Records first opened in Raleigh, N.C.
January 2026: The previous basement location experienced significant flooding.
May 2026: The business closed its previous location.
September 25, 2026: The new store location opens to the public.
Early October 2026: The store expects to begin full-time operating hours.
Market Landscape
The store's arrival at its new address reflects the ongoing retail revitalization of the Mount Vernon Avenue corridor. This move positions the shop in closer proximity to other local competitors, such as Mobius Records, within the competitive Del Ray music retail market.
Customers can expect the store to resume regular operations following the initial opening weekend. The new, larger townhouse space offers a different shopping environment compared to the previous basement location.
The takeaway
Supporting local businesses after natural disasters can be vital to maintaining the unique character of neighborhood commercial districts. Residents are encouraged to check updated social media channels for the most current information on store hours as the business transitions to its new home.
What happens next
The store will operate with limited hours through the weekend before transitioning to a full-time schedule in early October 2026.
Further reading
For more news on local businesses, visit the Alexandria Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ALXnow | Alexandria, Va. breaking news, local events and community happenings.
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