The final episode of Stranger Things 5 will stream on Netflix and play in select theaters at the same time, marking a first for a TV series.
Netflix and Big Screen Premiere Set for December 31
The series finale — Episode 508 — will premiere globally on Netflix on December 31 at 5 p.m. PT. At the same time, it will begin screening in over 350 theaters across the U.S. and Canada as part of a limited fan event running through January 1, 2026.
The Duffer Brothers called the dual release a longtime dream.
“We’re beyond excited that fans will have the chance to experience the final episode of Stranger Things in theaters — it’s something we’ve dreamed about for years, and we’re so grateful to Ted, Bela, and everyone at Netflix for making it happen,” the Duffer brothers said. “Getting to see it on the big screen, with incredible sound, picture, and a room full of fans, feels like the perfect — dare we say bitchin’ — way to celebrate the end of this adventure.”
Details on ticketing and specific theater locations will be shared closer to the event.
Spend the Holidays in Hawkins!
— sƃuᴉɥʇ ɹǝƃuɐɹʇs (@Stranger_Things) October 23, 2025
Volume 1 Nov 26
Volume 2 Christmas
The finale New Years Eve, in select theaters in US & Canada, and only on Netflix. More information to come! pic.twitter.com/i77chNZvYk
A First for Streaming TV
While past shows like Game of Thrones and Stranger Things 4 have had special screenings after their streaming debuts, this is the first time a TV episode will premiere simultaneously in theaters and on a streaming service — following the day-and-date strategy more commonly seen with film releases.
The move signals a shift in Netflix’s approach. While the company previously resisted theatrical runs, it has recently opened limited theatrical windows for select original movies. The Stranger Things 5 finale represents a significant step in that direction for its series programming.
Final Season Release Schedule
Stranger Things 5 rolls out in three volumes:
- Volume 1 (Episodes 501–504): November 26
- Volume 2 (Episodes 505–507): December 25
- Finale (Episode 508): December 31
All episodes debut at 5 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. EST on Netflix.
Story and Cast
Set in fall 1987, the season follows the aftermath of the rifts tearing through Hawkins. Vecna is missing, the government has locked down the town, and Eleven is once again in hiding. The group must reunite one last time to face a growing threat as the anniversary of Will’s disappearance looms.
The cast includes Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Sadie Sink, Noah Schnapp, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Joe Keery, Maya Hawke, Priah Ferguson, Brett Gelman, Jamie Campbell Bower, Cara Buono, Amybeth McNulty, Nell Fisher, Jake Connelly, Alex Breaux, and Linda Hamilton.
