If you still haven’t watched Stranger Things 5, and are planning to arrange a watch party to stream it with your friends, I must give it to you – you’ve got a great idea brewing.
But where do you even start? How to be the perfect host (Monica-esque from FRIENDS), so that all the friends gather at your place for another watch party?
Well, I can help you with that. I will share the best ways to have an ultimate watch party.
If that sounds good to you, let’s hop right into it.
A Little Décor Would Help
In my experience, half the fun of a watch party is the vibe. I know you would want to just switch on Netflix and hope to have the best experience, but for a watch party, you have to build the vibe.
And how can you do that?
I suggest you start small: dim the lights, turn on some fairy lights (red ones if you really want to build that Hawkins vibe), and maybe add a few DIY alphabet-wall letters. You don’t need to spend a fortune because even a simple printed poster of Eleven or the Demogorgon can help with the perfect ambiance of a Stranger Things watch party.
Just make sure to set the tone right with minimal effort so that you and your guests can have the best watching experience. If you need to add more fun to the watch party, munching can help.
Bring on Some Snacks
Here’s the truth: no one remembers a watch party with bad snacks (I am talking about Candy Corns here. They are really bad!), and if you really want your friends to actually come back for the finale after the New Year starts, get the snacks that your guests can actually enjoy.
Well, the best can vary, but for me, popcorn is non-negotiable. Doritos are an obvious choice, but if you want to go the extra mile, set up a mini snack bar. Get some Eggo Waffles – you know, for Eleven. Also, you can add some themed red-and-black candies.
I have observed that in a watch party, hungry guests are the most distracted ones. So, make them stick to the screen, and arrange some good snacks for the best experience.
Check Your Internet Connection
A fast and stable internet connection is a must-have because in a watch party, nothing worsens the experience more than buffering.
Imagine everyone in full suspense mode during the inevitable war in Hawkins, Vecna is about to appear, and suddenly, that annoying circle pops up on the screen that is always stuck at 99%.
This is sure to ruin the watch party.
So, first things first, get a fast and reliable internet connection. I suggest WOW! Internet plans, mainly because of its fiber-powered connectivity, and in case you want to skip the hassle of multiple billings, you can always explore WOW! bundles. I have been using it since the second season of Stranger Things aired in 2017, and WOW! has yet to disappoint me.
If you are satisfied with your current provider, I still recommend running a quick speed test before everyone arrives. Also, restart the router if needed. It is essential because a stable internet connection doesn’t just make you a good host; it helps you be a great host.
Set Up a Good Sound System
Here’s the thing: Stranger Things has that eerie music all across the show. And that twist of music with Running Up That Hill is another sound that is worth listening to. So, a good sound setup is important.
If you have a soundbar or Bluetooth speaker in your home, this is probably the best time to use it. Even a basic external speaker can make a huge difference because your TV’s built-in speakers might struggle.
Just make sure to place the speakers where everyone gets the same immersive experience. Don’t overdo the volume to avoid blasting their ears off. Keep it just enough that they feel the suspense without the pain.
Arrange Some Watch Party Games During Breaks
Last but not least, watch parties don’t have to be just one binge-watch session. Keep some breaks between the sessions. What should you do during those breaks?
Let me share that with you.
Plan a few quick Stranger Things-themed games. Maybe a trivia round with questions like who said this line or name that monster. You could even do a fun guessing game: who’s going to betray whom, who survives this episode, or who’s definitely hiding something?
Small activities keep the energy high, especially between episodes. Plus, it gives everyone something to look forward to besides the plot twists.
To wrap things up, I would give a pro tip that will help you become the GOAT host of watch parties.
Before the party starts, set up two audio zones. Keep the main room playing the normal show audio, while the hallway, kitchen, or entryway plays ambient Upside Down sounds like low hums, crackles, and reversed whispers to create an immersive Stranger Things vibe throughout the space.
