Stranger Things Season 5 Episode 8: Release time and what fans can expect from the grand finale

If you’re a die-hard fan of Netflix’s hit series Stranger Thingsyou’re probably counting down the days to the epic conclusion. Season 5 Episode 8, titled “Chapter Eight: The Rightside Up”is the highly anticipated series finale, directed by the Duffer Brothers. This episode is set to wrap up nearly a decade of supernatural thrills, emotional journeys, and battles against the Upside Down.

When Does Stranger Things Season 5 Episode 8 Release?

The finale drops on December 31, 2025at 8:00 pm ET / 5:00 pm PT exclusively on Netflix. That’s New Year’s Eve – perfect timing for a blockbuster send-off as we ring in 2026.

Global release times include:

• UK: 1:00 a.m. GMT on January 1, 2026
• India: 6:30 a.m. IST on January 1, 2026
• Australia: 12:00 p.m. AEDT on January 1, 2026

In an exciting first for the series, Episode 8 will also premiere in select theaters across the US and Canada at the exact same time as the Netflix stream, giving fans the option for a cinematic experience.

With a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutesthis finale is essentially a full-length movie – one of the longest episodes in Stranger Things history.

What to Expect from Episode 8: “The Rightside Up” (No Spoilers)

The Duffer Brothers have teased that Season 5 blends the small-town intimacy of Season 1 with the epic scale of Season 4. The finale promises to be the “biggest” yet – a massive showdown against Vecna and the forces of the Upside Down.

Expect:

• High-stakes battles and supernatural spectacle
• Emotional payoffs for long-running character stories
• Resolutions to key mysteries, including the origins and fate of the Upside Down
• Heartfelt moments of friendship, family, and growth

The title “The Rightside Up” cleverly mirrors Season 1’s finale (“The Upside Down”), hinting at a return to normalcy for Hawkins… or perhaps something more profound.

Fans are buzzing about potential sacrifices, triumphs, and surprises. The Duffers have promised a satisfying end that honors the show’s roots while delivering closure.