: The season explores the "painful process of growing up," where characters must lose parts of their old selves to find who they are becoming. Why Season 3 Still Resonates

The following article explores the themes and production of Stranger Things Season 3, inspired by the interest in Hawkins' most explosive summer.

: The Duffer Brothers intended for this season to be a "celebration of childhood before it ends". This is most evident in Will Byers' struggle as he realizes his friends are moving away from Dungeons & Dragons and toward romantic relationships.