Netflix Unveils Lengthy Runtime For 'Stranger Things' Season 5 Finale

Netflix is keeping excitement high for the next chapter of Stranger Things by sharing key updates about the series conclusion. After much speculation regarding the length of the finale, the streaming giant has confirmed the official runtime for the final episode of the fifth season.

The Season 5 finale, titled The Rightside Up, will run for 2 hours and 5 minutes, making it the second-longest episode in the shows history. Fans can watch it on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The only longer episode remains the Season 4 finale, which is 2 hours and 19 minutes.

In addition to the runtime, Netflix announced that the finale will be shown in over 500 theaters across the U.S. and Canada. These screenings will happen simultaneously with the streaming release, allowing audiences to experience the episode at the same time worldwide. The theatrical showings will run from December 31 through January 1.

Earlier, Netflix released Volume 1 of Season 5 on November 26, consisting of four episodes that received overwhelmingly positive reviews. The last episode of Volume 1 featured Will and his friends confronting Vecna and his monstrous army in Hawkins. Vecna revealed his strategy of kidnapping children to expand his control over the world. The episode concluded with Will unleashing dormant powers, hinting at his critical role in the upcoming final showdown.

Fans are eager to see how Will, Eleven, Mike, Lucas, Dustin, and the rest of the group will confront Vecna and end the terrifying saga.

Volume 2 of Stranger Things Season 5 will be available on Netflix starting Thursday, December 25, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.

Author: Sophia Brooks