The Stranger Things series finale releases on Netflix on December 31, 2025. The final episodes will also receive a limited theatrical release, making it an event befitting the show's cultural impact.
Netflix is ending the decade's biggest show with a New Year's Eve celebration that fans have been waiting years for.
Complete Release Schedule
Volume 1: December 1, 2025 Episodes 1-4 released on Netflix
Volume 2: December 25, 2025 (Christmas) Episodes 5-6 released on Netflix
Volume 3 / Finale: December 31, 2025 (New Year's Eve) Episodes 7-8 released on Netflix and select theaters
Why the Split?: Following the Season 4 model, Netflix is releasing in volumes to maximize hype and give audiences time to process. Each volume ends on a cliffhanger.
The Theatrical Event
Historic First: Stranger Things Season 5 marks the first time a Netflix series finale will receive a theatrical release. The final two episodes will play in select IMAX and premium theaters.
Why Theaters?: The Duffer Brothers pushed for theatrical because the finale's scope rivals feature films. Some scenes were shot specifically for the IMAX format.
Tickets: Theater tickets went on sale in October 2025 and sold out within hours in major cities. Additional screenings have been added.
The Experience: Theatrical showings include an introduction from the Duffer Brothers and a post-credits celebration with cast interviews.
Episode Lengths
Like Season 4, Season 5 features extended episodes:
- Episode 1: ~75 minutes
- Episode 2: ~65 minutes
- Episode 3: ~80 minutes
- Episode 4: ~70 minutes
- Episode 5: ~85 minutes
- Episode 6: ~75 minutes
- Episode 7: ~95 minutes
- Episode 8 (Finale): ~2 hours 30 minutes
Total Runtime: Approximately 10+ hours
The Feature-Length Finale: At 2.5 hours, the finale is essentially a feature film. The Duffers said it needed to be that long to properly conclude everyone's story.
How to Watch
Netflix Streaming: All episodes available at midnight PT on their release dates.
Theatrical Screenings: Check your local IMAX and premium theaters for the finale event.
Watch Parties: Netflix is promoting official watch parties for the finale. Many cities have organized viewing events.
The Best Way to Watch: The Duffers recommend watching the finale in one sitting if possible: "It's designed as a single, uninterrupted experience. The rhythm matters."
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