Planning a cozy Halloween movie night with the family? We've got you covered with the perfect mix of spooky, silly, and not-too-scary films that everyone will enjoy. Grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for some Halloween fun!
For the Littlest Viewers (Ages 3-6)
1. It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
Why it's perfect: This classic is gentle, sweet, and introduces Halloween traditions without any scares. Linus waiting for the Great Pumpkin is timeless!
Runtime: 25 minutes
Where to watch: Apple TV+
2. Room on the Broom (2012)
Why it's perfect: Based on the beloved children's book, this charming animated short features a friendly witch and her animal friends.
Runtime: 25 minutes
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, YouTube
3. Spookley the Square Pumpkin (2004)
Why it's perfect: A heartwarming story about being different and accepting others, with zero scares.
Runtime: 47 minutes
Where to watch: Various streaming platforms
For Young Kids (Ages 7-10)
4. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Why it's perfect: The Sanderson sisters are more funny than frightening, and the movie has become a Halloween tradition for families everywhere.
Runtime: 96 minutes
Where to watch: Disney+
5. Casper (1995)
Why it's perfect: A friendly ghost who just wants friends? Kids love this sweet story with just enough spookiness.
Runtime: 100 minutes
Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime
6. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Why it's perfect: Hilarious animated fun featuring Dracula, Frankenstein, and other classic monsters in a family-friendly setting.
Runtime: 91 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime
7. The Addams Family (1991)
Why it's perfect: Quirky, funny, and delightfully weird without being scary. The whole family will laugh!
Runtime: 99 minutes
Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime
For Tweens & Teens (Ages 11+)
8. Beetlejuice (1988)
Why it's perfect: Tim Burton's classic is weird, wonderful, and perfectly Halloween-y without being too intense.
Runtime: 92 minutes
Where to watch: Max, Amazon Prime
9. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Why it's perfect: Is it a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? Either way, it's a stunning stop-motion masterpiece!
Runtime: 76 minutes
Where to watch: Disney+
10. Ghostbusters (1984)
Why it's perfect: Who you gonna call? This comedy classic has just the right mix of humor and supernatural fun.
Runtime: 105 minutes
Where to watch: Various streaming platforms
11. Coraline (2009)
Why it's perfect: Visually stunning and genuinely creepy (but not too scary), this stop-motion film is perfect for older kids who want something with edge.
Runtime: 100 minutes
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Peacock
Bonus: Modern Favorites
12. Coco (2017)
Why it's perfect: While technically about Día de los Muertos, this beautiful Pixar film is perfect for late October viewing.
Runtime: 105 minutes
Where to watch: Disney+
13. ParaNorman (2012)
Why it's perfect: A boy who can talk to ghosts must save his town from a zombie curse. Clever and heartfelt!
Runtime: 92 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime
Creating the Perfect Movie Night Experience
Snack Station Setup:
- Use our Halloween tote bags as snack holders for each family member - fill them with popcorn, candy, and treats!
- Create a "concession stand" with different snack options
- Make themed treats like "witch finger" pretzels or "monster" popcorn balls
- Serve drinks in fun Halloween cups
Atmosphere Tips:
- Dim the lights or use battery-operated candles
- Arrange cozy blankets and pillows on the floor
- Decorate the viewing area with simple Halloween touches
- Let kids wear their costumes for extra fun!
Make It Interactive:
- Create bingo cards with movie-specific items to spot
- Have a costume contest before the movie
- Vote on which movie to watch next
- Discuss favorite scenes afterward
Movie Marathon Ideas
The Classic Halloween Triple Feature:
- It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
- Hocus Pocus
- The Nightmare Before Christmas
The Animated Adventure Marathon:
- Hotel Transylvania
- ParaNorman
- Coraline
The Comedy Spooky Marathon:
- Ghostbusters
- Beetlejuice
- The Addams Family
Age-Appropriate Viewing Guide
Remember: Every child is different! Here are some general guidelines:
- Ages 3-6: Stick to animated shorts and very gentle stories
- Ages 7-10: Light scares are okay, but avoid anything too intense
- Ages 11+: Can handle more suspense and mild frights
- Teens: Ready for classic horror-comedies and Tim Burton films
Pro tip: Watch the movie yourself first if you're unsure, or check Common Sense Media for detailed content reviews.
Making It Special
The best part of family movie night isn't just the movie - it's the togetherness! Here's how to make it memorable:
- Turn off phones and eliminate distractions
- Let each family member pick a movie for different nights
- Take photos in costumes before the movie starts
- Create a tradition (same snacks, same blanket, etc.)
- Use our reusable Halloween tote bags year after year for movie night snacks
Budget-Friendly Streaming Tips
- Use free trials strategically (just remember to cancel!)
- Many streaming services offer student or family discounts
- Share subscriptions with family members (where allowed)
- Look for free options on YouTube or Tubi
Whether you're watching a classic for the hundredth time or discovering a new favorite, Halloween movie nights create memories that last long after the credits roll. So grab your Halloween tote bags, fill them with treats, gather the family, and enjoy some spooky (but not too spooky!) fun! 🎃🍿👻
What's your family's favorite Halloween movie? Let us know in the comments!
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