So, you’re planning a Stranger Things-themed birthday party? If you’re a fan of the show (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), then it’s basically required that you celebrate with creepy Demogorgons, retro vibes, and lots of waffles. Let’s dive into how you can throw a killer Stranger Things bash that’ll have your friends thinking they’ve just stepped into Hawkins, Indiana, or maybe even… the Upside Down.
How to throw a Stranger Things-themed party (step-by-step)
Here’s the only detailed game plan you need if you are planning a Stranger Things-themed party, well-customizable for any space, budget, and detailing required.
1. I want Stranger Things theme. But I am not sure where to start?
Start by deciding where your party will be (home, backyard, or maybe rent out a local hall if you’re going all-out). Next, pick a season or vibe to base your party around. Season 1 has those spooky woods and creepy Demogorgons, while Season 3 gives us that oh-so-80s Starcourt Mall vibe.
Checklist for deciding the Stranger Things party theme – beginner level
- Pick a location (indoors/outdoors)
- Choose your season or theme (classic Hawkins? Upside Down, Starcourt Mall, etc.)
- Set a budget and create your shopping list.
2. Stranger Things birthday party ideas
Some well tried and tested Stranger Things birthday party ideas:
- 80s Arcade Party: Let’s get retro! Think neon lights, Pac-Man, and all things 80s. Invite your friends to break out the old-school arcade games and blast some 80s tunes.
- Starcourt Mall Food Court Bash: From the Scoops Ahoy ice cream stand to the classic mall vibe, a Starcourt Mall party gives you endless décor and food ideas (sundae bar, anyone?).
- Upside Down Spooky Party: Dim lighting, fog machines, black lights, and vines hanging from the ceiling. This one’s for the brave souls who want to really set the creepy vibe.
- Hawkins Lab Science Party: For the curious kids (or adults!) who want to experiment. Think test tubes, safety goggles, and maybe even some “science experiments” gone wrong.
- Costume Party: Come dressed as your favorite Hawkins kid! Think Eleven’s pink dress, Dustin’s trucker hat, or Steve’s Scoops Ahoy uniform.
3. Decor items you need for Stranger Things birthday party
If you want to truly transform your space into Hawkins, you need the right decorations. No shortcuts here, my friend. Here are some decor items you can buy on Amazon.
- DIY Christmas Light Wall: Create the iconic alphabet wall where Eleven communicates with Joyce. It’s easy, looks amazing, and is 100% Stranger Things. Check out these wall lights on Amazon.
- Upside Down Vibes: Think black vines, dark colors, and a whole lot of fog. You can use some black cloth or streamers to mimic the vines from the Upside Down.
- 80s Posters & Signs: Posters of 80s movies, arcade signs, or even Starcourt Mall flyers. You can find these on Etsy or make your own for that authentic retro look. Here’s a vintage poster collection that you can get from Amazon.
- Demogorgon Cutouts & Portals: Set up a few “monster portals” and scatter Demogorgon cutouts around the party. Maybe even set up a photo booth with the “Upside Down” as the backdrop.
4. Stranger Things party food ideas
You would not just need decor but food items as well to be a great host. Here are some Stranger Things inspired food items for some spooky fun.
- Eggo Waffle Bar: Because Eleven’s obsession with Eggo waffles is iconic. Set up a waffle station with toppings like syrup, whipped cream, and fruit.
- Demogorgon Deviled Eggs: Get spooky with this easy party snack. Decorate them with some “monster teeth” for an extra creepy twist.
- Scoops Ahoy Ice Cream Sundae Station: A nod to Season 3’s epic ice cream shop. Set up a DIY sundae station with toppings galore.
- 80s Candy Buffet: Get those vintage candies like Pop Rocks, Nerds, and Ring Pops, and let your guests go wild.
- Mind Flayer Cake: Go all out with a Mind Flayer or Demogorgon cake. Bonus points for a glowing “Upside Down” effect. You could get this locally baked, sharing some references from the show.
- Pumpkin pie: If you are up for another dessert, bake a pumpkin pie and sprinkle some season 2 fun.
5. Stranger Things party outfit ideas
What’s a Stranger Things party without the perfect outfit? Time to channel your inner Hawkins kid (or creepy creature).
- Eleven’s Pink Dress & Blonde Wig: Go full Eleven with that iconic pink dress and blonde wig combo.
- Dustin’s Camp Know Where Gear: Rock the trucker hat, graphic t-shirt, and a backpack like the ultimate D&D nerd.
- Steve Harrington’s Scoops Ahoy Uniform: Looking for a cute and recognizable costume? Steve’s ice cream scooper outfit is a hit.
- 80s Vibe: If you’re not into full costumes, just throw on a denim jacket, scrunchie, and some high-top sneakers for a chill 80s look.
- Demogorgon: For the brave souls who want to scare the heck out of everyone, a Demogorgon costume is just perfect, though it’s more suitable for a costume party or Halloween.
6. How to make a Stranger Things Christmas light wall
If there’s one thing everyone remembers about Stranger Things, it’s that Christmas Light Wall. Here’s how you can make your own!
Materials Needed:
- String of Christmas lights
- Large canvas or wall space
- Tape or paint to create the alphabet grid
- Extension cord (safety first!)
How-To:
- Tape or paint the alphabet on your wall or canvas in a grid pattern.
- String up the Christmas lights around the grid.
- Use the lights to spell out messages, just like Joyce did with Eleven. Bonus: Sync them with some eerie music for full impact.
7. Stranger Things party ideas for kids vs adults
- For Kids: Set up arcade games, serve waffles and ice cream, and have a Dungeons & Dragons-style scavenger hunt (but kid-friendly, of course). You could also make homemade “slime” for them to play with — that goo from the Upside Down!
- For Adults: Create an 80s-themed dance floor, play Stranger Things trivia, or set up an Upside Down escape room. Add a Stranger Things drinking game (just make sure it’s legal, folks!).
8. Stranger Things Party games and activities
- Dungeons & Dragons Mini-Campaign: If your guests are nerds, why not make it official? Set up a D&D campaign that mirrors the one the kids play in the show.
- Stranger Things Trivia: Who knows the most about Hawkins? Test your guest’s knowledge with a Stranger Things trivia game.
- Pin the Waffle on Eleven: It’s like Pin the Tail on the Donkey, but with waffles. Perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Upside Down Scavenger Hunt: Hide clues around the party and send your guests on an adventure to find a special prize.
- Escape Room-style Hawkins Lab Game: Create a Hawkins Lab mystery. Guests have to solve riddles and puzzles to “escape.”
How to recreate the Upside Down at your party?
Ready to take it to the next level? Here’s how to create that creepy, eerie, foggy Upside Down look:
- Fog Machine: This is a must. Get one to add that atmospheric haze.
- Black Vines: Create vines using black streamers, fabric, or ropes, and drape them all over the space.
- Dark Lighting: Use blue, purple, or red lights to mimic the weird glow of the Upside Down.
- Sound: Play eerie synth music from the show, or even the track “The World Turned Upside Down.”
Where to find Stranger Things party inspiration?
Pinterest is your best friend here, trust me. Look for hashtags like #StrangerThingsParty or #StrangerThingsBirthday to get the full party-planning. experience. Instagram also has some killer DIY ideas. And if you’re looking for merch and official items, Etsy and Amazon are your go-to spots.
Here’s a great video we found on YouTube, where a user shared their experience organizing a Stranger Things themed party.
Cost & budget: How Much does a Stranger Things party cost?
We just did some math and it would take anywhere from $50 to $5000 for you to plan a Stranger Things themed birthday or a party, based on what elements you pick.
This depends on your budget and how extra you want to go.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- DIY Budget Party: $50–$100. DIY decorations, homemade food, and simple outfits.
- Mid-Range Party: $200–$300. Add in some rented items, official props, and a fog machine.
- Full-On Stranger Things Experience: $500+. Rent a venue, hire event planners, and buy custom-made decor and costumes. The works.
Conclusion: Make It Strange, Make It Awesome
Throwing a Stranger Things birthday party isn’t just about the decorations — it’s about creating a vibe that feels totally out of this world (literally). So, throw on your favorite Hawkins gear, light up those Christmas lights, and get ready for a memorable event.
And remember, friends don’t lie… so you know your party will be a hit. Ready to party like it’s the 80s? We are! Do share with us party clicks, videos, and reels, if our tips work for you.