I love bringing a touch of cinematic magic to festive events, and what better inspiration than Stranger Things? The season had its world premiere on 6th November 2025 in Los Angeles and is set to be released in three parts: the first volume of four episodes will debut in the UK on 27th November, followed by the second with three episodes on Christmas Day, and the series finale on New Year’s Eve. With the story unfolding through the festive season, it’s the perfect excuse to immerse your loved ones in a Hawkins-inspired Christmas, or ‘Friendsmas’, celebration… think upside-down Christmas trees, sci-fi-inspired cocktails, and 80s nostalgia that will impress your guests endlessly.
Before we dive into ideas, for a full look at how we’ve brought Hawkins to life in the past, check out our Stranger Twins Party blog. That event was one of the most detailed TLC has ever produced, featuring an upside-down forest, a graffiti tunnel entrance, and themed zones for adults and children. From sci-fi cocktails to arcade-style games and 80s touches everywhere, it’s a brilliant example of how the team can transform imagination into reality, and it’s packed with inspiration for your own festive take.
80’s themed table decor
Set the Scene: Transform Your Home
To create an unforgettable Stranger Things Christmas party, start with the atmosphere. Lighting is everything. As well as recreating the iconic ‘alphabet wall’ in your main room of entertainment, create an epic entrance to your home by trimming skirting boards and doorways with glowing fairy lights, a theatrical touch that promises to transport guests straight into Hawkins. You could drape your space with dark, moody décor contrasted with pops of festive red and green, and add subtle 80s details like retro Christmas decorations. Think cola can baubles, glittering Rubik’s cubes, tinsel garlands, and retro pieces your grandparents would covet on their tree. In this theme, the kitschier, the better.
If you really want to commit to the theme this Christmas, consider shaking things up with an ‘Upside Down’ Christmas tree. Adorn it with 80s/90s-inspired baubles, colourful fairy lights, and metallic tinsel or angel hair for extra impact.
Sci-Fi Inspired Festive Drinks
Cocktails and mocktails are a chance to have a bit more fun. Serve drinks in quirky glassware, like conical flasks or science beakers. You could create festive takes on Stranger Things-inspired drinks, think an Eggo Waffle martini or a Hawkins Lab mulled punch. Presentation is key: quirky garnishes, themed straws, or floating ornaments all elevate the experience and spark conversation.
Science-inspired Cocktails & Mocktails
80s Nostalgia and Music
No Stranger Things party is complete without an 80s soundtrack. Mix Kate Bush with classic Christmas tracks, some retro pop, and synth-heavy hits to keep the energy high. Encourage guests to dress in 80s-inspired festive outfits—perhaps layered sweaters, baseball caps, statement belts, or Eleven-style graphic playsuits. Music and fashion are the quickest ways to transport people back in time, giving your party that immersive and playful edge.
Fun and Games: Engaging Activities
Keep your guests entertained with themed games and activities. Mini arcade machines, Stranger Things trivia, or a simple deck of themed card games can keep everyone engaged. If guests are bringing children, keep them occupied with a Christmas scavenger hunt featuring clues inspired by the Upside Down, or set up a photobooth with a mobile phone tripod and props like walkie-talkies, stereos, and glittery Christmas lights. The goal is to combine nostalgia, interactivity, and that signature TLC theatrical flair.
Food with a Twist
Food is another opportunity to immerse guests. Think American diner-style snacks with a festive edge: burgers with cranberry sauce and brie, mac & cheese balls with grated chestnut or nutmeg, or spiced mince pies served in red metallic containers. Even simple finger foods can become part of the theme with creative dish labels like “Demogorgon Donuts” or “Eleven’s Eggnog Shots,” making the menu both fun and memorable. Finally, garnish table settings with retro sweets for the ultimate festive throwback.
Stranger Things Christmas lights
Bringing it All Together
A Stranger Things festive party is about weaving together sets, lighting, food, drinks, music, and activities into one immersive experience. It’s the little details, how the fairy lights twist like the Upside Down vines or how a themed cocktail surprises a guest, that make the event truly magical. And don’t forget: for inspiration from one of our most elaborate Stranger Things events, check out the Stranger Twins Party blog to see how we brought the series to life with creative flair and meticulous attention to detail.