Today is finally the day “Stranger Things” fans have been waiting for — literally for years — as new episodes are about to arrive.

The first part of the show’s final season begins streaming tonight, Wednesday, Nov. 26, on Netflix, just in time for viewers to spot the series’ float in Thursday’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Netflix offered an early glimpse of Season 5 during Netflix Tudum 2025 and confirmed when each batch of episodes will be released. Here’s everything you need to know about catching up with your favorite fictional Hoosiers.

When does ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 come out on Netflix? Is it being released in parts?

The eight-episode final season will roll out this fall in three separate parts.

Watch it here: Stream your favorite shows, top blockbusters and more.

Four episodes premiere as “Volume 1” on Nov. 26, the night before Thanksgiving. “Volume 2,” which includes three more episodes, arrives on Netflix on Christmas Day.

The series finale will be released on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, 2025.

What time will new ‘Stranger Things’ episodes be available?

Each volume drops at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, according to Netflix.

How many ‘Stranger Things’ episodes are available this week?

The first four episodes will be available beginning at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Nov. 26.

Where is Hawkins, Indiana?

Hawkins is not a real town — it exists only in the world of the show.

Need a quick refresher? Read a recap of Seasons 1–4

USA TODAY’s Brendan Morrow recently summarized every season ahead of the Season 5 launch. You can read the full recap in his story.

Watch the Season 5 trailer

Who’s in the cast of ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5?

Returning cast members include:

• Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers)

• David Harbour (Jim Hopper)

• Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven)

• Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler)

• Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin Henderson)

• Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas Sinclair)

• Noah Schnapp (Will Byers)

• Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield)

• Natalia Dyer (Nancy Wheeler)

• Charlie Heaton (Jonathan Byers)

• Joe Keery (Steve Harrington)

• Maya Hawke (Robin Buckley)

• Priah Ferguson (Erica Sinclair)

• Brett Gelman (Murray)

• Jamie Campbell Bower (Vecna)

• Cara Buono (Karen Wheeler)

• Amybeth McNulty (Vickie)