In 2016, a group of kids, bikes, and a mysterious upside-down world captured global attention. Nearly a decade later, Stranger Things isn’t just a hit TV show — it’s a cultural phenomenon that has blurred the lines between storytelling and real-world experiences. As the iconic series airs its final season and prepares for its New Year’s Eve finale, some of the world’s biggest brands are celebrating Hawkins, Indiana in bold, nostalgic style.
Take Target, for example. The retail giant didn’t just slap a logo on a few products — it transported fans straight into the world of Hawkins. With over 150 Stranger Things-inspired items across apparel, collectibles, food and décor, Target created immersive shopping experiences both in store and online, complete with retro displays that feel straight out of the show’s 1980s setting. Its national ad campaign — developed in collaboration with Netflix and even featuring characters from the series — leans into nostalgia while bringing something fresh to holiday shoppers.
Meanwhile, Google found its own way to celebrate the final season by turning everyday tools into playful fan experiences. Fans could dive into an interactive Stranger Things scavenger hunt right from Google Search — a clever digital way to connect viewers with the show’s mysteries. Other brands like Trident even released limited-edition packaging as part of their tribute to the series, giving fans yet another way to mark the moment.
Beyond retail and tech, marketers across industries — from snack brands to beverage giants — have embraced Stranger Things in campaigns that treat Hawkins like a playground instead of just a backdrop. Creative activations like retro telethons, AR experiences and themed collaborations have helped bring the show’s world into our everyday lives, proof that Stranger Things has become one of the most marketing-rich entertainment franchises of this era.
As Stranger Things bows out, fans are getting more than just a finale — they’re getting a cultural farewell tour. Whether you’re browsing collectibles at a store, typing clues into your phone, or spotting nostalgic throwbacks on packaging and ads, this final season is shaping up to be as much about celebration as it is about closure — for Hawkins, and for the brands that helped make its world feel real.
