9 Best Family Halloween Movies for a Fun and Spooky Night

Halloween’s just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spooky spirit than with a family movie night? Whether you’re looking for light-hearted laughs or a few gentle scares, there’s a perfect Halloween movie for every family.

From timeless classics to modern favorites, these films offer the right mix of fun and fright. Grab your popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and get ready to discover the 9 best family Halloween movies that everyone will enjoy.

Explore Classic Family Halloween Movies

Turn your movie night into a magical experience with these timeless Halloween favorites. From spellbinding adventures to whimsical tales, these classics have something for everyone.

Hocus Pocus (1993): A Spellbinding Adventure

Immerse yourself in the world of three quirky witches brought back to life in modern-day Salem. This Disney classic features Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, who deliver unforgettable performances. With its perfect mix of comedy and spooky fun, “Hocus Pocus” is a must-watch for any family looking to add a little magic to their Halloween season.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993): A Tim Burton Masterpiece

Delight in the artistic genius of Tim Burton with this stop-motion animated gem. Follow Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. With memorable characters and enchanting music by Danny Elfman, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a unique crossover between two beloved holidays, making it a family favorite for both Halloween and Christmas.

Discover Animated Halloween Treats for Families

Animated films bring a unique charm to Halloween, captivating both kids and adults with vibrant visuals and engaging storylines.

Hotel Transylvania (2012): Monsters in a Family-Friendly Light

Laugh along with Dracula, voiced by Adam Sandler, as he runs a high-end resort for monsters and their families. In “Hotel Transylvania,” the plot thickens when an ordinary human accidentally stumbles into the hotel, capturing the heart of Dracula’s daughter, Mavis. This film’s humor and heart offer a lighthearted take on traditional monster tales, making it perfect for family viewing.

It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966): A Timeless Classic

Travel back in time with this enduring classic, where the Peanuts gang awaits the arrival of the Great Pumpkin. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” has been entertaining families for generations with its simple yet heartwarming storyline. Follow Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Linus as they navigate the trials and tribulations of Halloween night, offering timeless lessons on faith and friendship.

These animated Halloween treats promise to delight and entertain, creating cherished family memories.

Unearth Lesser-Known Family Halloween Gems

Step beyond the classics and discover some hidden family-friendly Halloween treasures that promise to enchant your household this spooky season.

The Witches (1990): A Roald Dahl Magical Encounter

Dive into Roald Dahl’s spellbinding world with “The Witches” (1990). This dark fantasy film follows a young boy who stumbles upon a convention of witches while vacationing with his grandmother. Led by the Grand High Witch, played by Anjelica Huston, the witches plot to turn children into mice. This movie balances whimsy with a dash of creepy, making it perfect for family Halloween viewing.

Coraline (2009): A Dark Fantasy for Brave Kids

Explore the eerie yet captivating universe of “Coraline” (2009). Based on Neil Gaiman’s novella, this stop-motion animation tells the story of a young girl who discovers a parallel world through a secret door in her new home. While seemingly perfect, this world harbors a dark secret. Its unique animation style and engaging plot make “Coraline” a thrilling choice for families with brave kids.

Delve Into Modern Family-Friendly Halloween Films

Modern family Halloween movies offer a delightful mix of spookiness and heartwarming moments. Here are two standout options:

Monster House (2006): A Spooky, Fun House Story

In “Monster House,” three kids discover that their neighbor’s house is alive and ready to devour anything in its vicinity. The film combines humor, adventure, and just the right amount of fright to keep everyone entertained. Using impressive animation and engaging characters, “Monster House” ensures a thrilling yet enjoyable experience for all ages.

Frankenweenie (2012): A Heartwarming Tale of a Boy and His Dog

“Frankenweenie” follows young Victor Frankenstein, who brings his beloved dog Sparky back to life with unintended consequences. Directed by Tim Burton, this stop-motion animated film offers a mix of gothic aesthetics and touching storytelling. With its unique charm and homage to classic monster movies, “Frankenweenie” is a perfect blend of spooky and sweet for family movie nights.

Enjoy Films Based on Popular Halloween Books

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001): Wizards, Witches, and Halloween

Dive into the magical world of Hogwarts in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” The first film in the Harry Potter series introduces you to young Harry as he discovers his wizarding heritage and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Set during Halloween, the movie features iconic scenes, such as the memorable troll incident in the girl’s bathroom and the Halloween feast, full of spooky decorations. Harry’s journey opens a door to a world where magic, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil enchant viewers of all ages. The film is based on the beloved book by J.K. Rowling, ensuring fans of the book series can enjoy seeing their favorite characters come to life.

Tips for Hosting a Family Halloween Movie Night

Choosing the Right Film

Make sure to pick a movie that suits the entire family. Consider the age of your kids when selecting from classics like “Hocus Pocus” or animated delights like “Hotel Transylvania.” Look for films that balance spookiness and humor, ensuring they won’t scare the little ones. Check ratings and reviews to find the best fit for your family.

Setting the Spooky Scene

Transform your living room into a Halloween wonderland. Use dim lights, faux cobwebs, and themed decorations to create a spooky atmosphere. Play eerie background music before the movie starts to set the mood. Consider using a projector and screen for a cinema-like experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Snacks and Activities for All Ages

Prepare both sweet and savory Halloween-themed snacks. Think caramel apples, popcorn balls, and gummy worms. Engage kids with fun, easy activities like decorating sugar cookies or making spooky crafts. Set up a snack bar where everyone can create their own treat mix. For added fun, create a Halloween bingo game based on scenes and characters from the movie you’ve chosen.

Conclusion: Celebrating Halloween with Family Movies

Halloween is the perfect time to gather the family and enjoy a spooky movie night. With classics, animated favorites, and modern gems, there’s a film for every taste and age. Creating a memorable experience is easy with the right ambiance, snacks, and activities. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and enjoy a night of thrills and laughter with these fantastic family Halloween movies.