The beginning of the end is here for Stranger Things fans.

Netflix has finally revealed the release dates for the eagerly anticipated fifth and final season of its popular sci-fi series, created by the Duffer Brothers—and they’re going all out. This epic conclusion will be released in three parts: Volume 1 will debut on November 26, Volume 2 will be available on December 25, and the grand finale will air just before the New Year—December 31.

Indeed, the beloved Hawkins gang returns for one last adventure in the Upside Down. Returning cast members include Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers), David Harbour (Jim Hopper), Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), Finn Wolfhard (Mike), Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), Noah Schnapp (Will), Joe Keery (Steve), Sadie Sink (Max), Natalia Dyer (Nancy), Charlie Heaton (Jonathan), Maya Hawke (Robin), Brett Gelman (Murray), Priah Ferguson (Erica), and Jamie Campbell Bower (Vecna). Adding to the 1980s-themed twist, Terminator legend Linda Hamilton joins the cast in a mysterious role yet to be revealed.

Fans will recall the dramatic events of Season 4, which concluded in summer 2022 with a two-part release and movie-length episodes. This finale featured an intense showdown with Vecna and the Demogorgons in the Upside Down—and the tragic loss of fan-favorite Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn). Though Vecna was injured, he managed to create havoc by merging the Upside Down with Hawkins. The main characters survived, but Max was left in a coma after falling victim to Vecna’s powers.

So what does that mean for Max’s role in the final season? Sadie Sink played coy in a recent Variety cover story, saying:

“They love having me run. That’s all I’ll say.”

Could that be a reference to the viral “Running Up That Hill” scene from Season 4? Possibly. The Duffer Brothers chimed in with more cryptic comments.

“She’s going to play a part in the season,” said Matt Duffer. Ross Duffer added, “But we don’t want to reveal how that’s possible.”

“Right, because she’s in a coma,” Matt clarified. “I think she’s grown just more confident as an actor and in her choices. We did film a scene the other day with her that was just absolutely heartbreaking. I don’t know how she hits those notes.”

Whatever happens, expect emotion, action, and nostalgia to run high as Stranger Things wraps its story across three high-stakes drops.

Watch the teaser for Stranger Things Season 5 above—and get ready to return to Hawkins one last time.