10 Ideas for Throwing a Stranger Things Party

by CrystalClutch / Thursday, 20 October 2022 / Published in Blog

Throwing a Stranger Things-themed party is an exciting way to immerse yourself and your guests into the eerie, nostalgic world of Hawkins, Indiana. From the supernatural Upside Down to 1980s pop culture references, there are endless ways to bring the hit Netflix series to life. Here are 10 ideas to help you create a Stranger Things party that will wow your guests and leave them feeling like they’ve stepped straight into the show.

1. Create a Stranger Things-Inspired Invitation

Set the tone for your party with creative invitations that echo the show’s spooky vibe. You can design an invitation that mimics Joyce Byers’ iconic wall with alphabet letters and Christmas lights. Include phrases like “Join us in Hawkins” or “See you in the Upside Down” along with the party details. For digital invites, consider using retro-style fonts and dark color schemes to evoke the eerie atmosphere of Stranger Things.

2. Transform Your Space with the Upside Down Ambiance

Decorate your venue to reflect the show’s contrasting worlds—Hawkins and the Upside Down. Use dim lighting, faux vines, and fog machines to create the shadowy, otherworldly feel of the Upside Down. Hang Christmas lights on the walls and combine them with DIY alphabet letters to replicate Joyce’s iconic communication with Will. Black tablecloths, glowing candles, and vintage 80s props can elevate the theme further.

3. Dress the Part with Stranger Things Costumes

Encourage your guests to come dressed as their favorite Stranger Things characters. From Eleven’s iconic pink dress and Eggo waffles to Dustin’s signature hat and Steve’s Scoops Ahoy uniform, there are plenty of costume ideas to choose from. To make things easier, create a “costume corner” at your party with accessories like wigs, hats, and character badges for any guests who come unprepared.

4. Design a Stranger Things-Themed Food Table

Craft a food table that pays homage to the series with cleverly themed snacks. Here’s a table for inspiration:

Snack Name	Description
Eggo Waffles	Serve mini waffles with syrup or toppings.
Demogorgon Dip	A spicy salsa or guacamole for dipping.
Upside Down Cupcakes	Cupcakes flipped over with dark frosting.
Hawkins Popcorn	Bags of flavored popcorn (cheddar, caramel).
Byers Board	A charcuterie board with 80s-style treats.

Add creative names to each dish to tie them back to the show and include small signage for a fun touch.

5. Host a Stranger Things Trivia Game

Test your guests’ knowledge of the show with a trivia game. Prepare a mix of easy and challenging questions related to the series, such as “What is Eleven’s birth name?” or “What year does Season 1 take place?” Divide guests into teams and award prizes to the winners. This activity will spark conversations and keep fans engaged throughout the party.

6. Set Up a Photo Booth with Themed Props

No party is complete without a photo booth! Create a Stranger Things-themed backdrop with elements like alphabet walls, Hawkins High banners, or the Starcourt Mall logo. Provide props such as Eggo waffles, walkie-talkies, and Demogorgon masks. You can also include a frame decorated with “Welcome to Hawkins” for guests to pose with.

7. Play a Stranger Things Soundtrack

Music plays a huge role in the show’s nostalgic 80s atmosphere. Curate a playlist featuring songs from the series, such as “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash, “Heroes” by Peter Gabriel, and “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper. Mix in other 80s hits to keep the energy up. For an immersive experience, play the Stranger Things soundtrack softly in the background during quieter moments.

8. Organize a Dungeons & Dragons Corner

Pay homage to the Hawkins kids’ favorite pastime by setting up a Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) corner. Provide a simple one-shot D&D campaign for beginners, or just set up a themed table with dice, figurines, and props for fans to appreciate. This is a great way to highlight the role-playing aspect of Stranger Things, especially for die-hard fans.

9. Serve Thematic Drinks and Mocktails

Create drinks with Stranger Things-inspired names and presentations. Here are a few ideas:

Upside Down Punch: A red and black layered drink using grenadine and cola.
Eleven’s Milkshake: A classic vanilla milkshake topped with whipped cream and Eggo pieces.
Demogorgon Brew: A spooky, dark-purple mocktail made from grape juice and tonic water.

Consider adding dry ice for a smoky, eerie effect that fits the Upside Down theme perfectly.

10. Hand Out Stranger Things-Themed Party Favors

Leave your guests with a memorable token from the party. Options include mini walkie-talkies, Hawkins High keychains, or Stranger Things pins. For a stylish touch, check out CrystalClutch.com for themed crystal accessories that your guests will love. Customizable items like Hawkins-inspired bracelets or necklaces add an elegant twist while staying true to the theme.

Conclusion

A Stranger Things party is a fantastic opportunity to relive the nostalgic and supernatural elements that make the series so beloved. With thoughtful planning, themed decorations, and creative activities, you can transport your guests straight to Hawkins and the Upside Down. Whether they’re solving trivia, enjoying thematic snacks, or dancing to 80s hits, your party is sure to delight fans and newcomers alike. So grab your Eggo waffles, hang those Christmas lights, and get ready to throw a Stranger Things bash that will be talked about for years to come!