Netflix has shared the worldwide release times for the next drop of Stranger Things, and fans around the globe are getting ready for a holiday release spanning December 25 and December 26, depending on location.
Based on the schedule shown in the official release-time graphic, here’s when viewers can expect the new episodes to go live in their region.
Release Date & Time by Region
December 25
Viewers in the Americas will be able to start watching on Christmas Day:
- United States (Pacific Time): 5:00 PM
- United States (Eastern Time): 8:00 PM
- Canada:
- Toronto – 8:00 PM
- Vancouver – 5:00 PM
- Brazil (Rio de Janeiro): 10:00 PM
December 26
For much of Europe, Asia, and Oceania, the release rolls over to December 26:
- United Kingdom (GMT): 1:00 AM
- Europe (CET): 2:00 AM
- South Africa (Cape Town): 3:00 AM
- India (New Delhi): 6:30 AM
- Indonesia (Jakarta): 8:00 AM
- Philippines (Manila): 9:00 AM
- Hong Kong: 9:00 AM
- Singapore: 9:00 AM
- Australia:
- Perth – 9:00 AM
- Sydney – 12:00 PM
- Japan (Tokyo): 10:00 AM
- New Zealand (Auckland): 2:00 PM
Why Netflix Uses a Global Time Release
Netflix typically releases major titles at the same moment worldwide, rather than by local midnight. This means the calendar date changes depending on time zone, which is why some regions see a December 25 release while others get access on December 26.
This strategy helps prevent spoilers from spreading too early and ensures a synchronized global launch.
What Fans Can Expect
With the release landing squarely in the holiday window, many fans are planning Christmas-night binge sessions. Social media activity is expected to spike immediately after release as viewers react to the latest episodes.
Netflix has positioned this release as a major seasonal event, combining holiday timing with one of its most-watched original series.
How to Watch
- Episodes will be available exclusively on Netflix
- All episodes are expected to drop at once
- A stable internet connection is recommended due to high launch traffic
Bottom Line
The next chapter of Stranger Things Season 5 arrives globally between December 25 and December 26, with release times varying by region. Whether you’re watching on Christmas evening in the U.S. or early morning in Europe and Asia, the Upside Down is officially returning for the holidays.
Fans should mark their calendars—and set their alarms—accordingly.
