It’s that time of year when families gather to celebrate the spookiest season with costumes, candies, and of course, movies! Whether you're looking for friendly ghosts, charming witches, or funny monsters, there are Halloween movies for everyone in your family.
To make your Halloween movie night unforgettable, we've compiled a list of family-friendly flicks that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
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1. Casper (1995)
Based on the beloved cartoon, Casper tells the heartwarming story of a ghost who befriends a young girl named Kat. Filled with humor and adventure, this film explores themes of friendship and acceptance, making it a Halloween classic for families.
2. Hocus Pocus (1993)
No Halloween movie list is complete without Hocus Pocus (and now Hocus Pocus 2). This cult classic follows three witches resurrected in modern-day Salem and the brave kids who must stop their evil plans.
With a perfect blend of comedy and spookiness, this film has become a staple for Halloween enthusiasts.
3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This stop-motion masterpiece from Tim Burton is a treat for the eyes and the soul.
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a unique and visually stunning film that beautifully combines Halloween and Christmas. Follow the journey of the Pumpkin King, as he attempts to take over Christmas after stumbling across a small holiday town.
4. Monster House (2006)
Monster House is an animated film that takes the concept of a haunted house to a whole new level. When three kids suspect that their neighbor's house is alive and eating people, they embark on a spooky adventure to save the neighborhood. With its thrilling storyline and clever humor, this movie is a hit among families.
5. It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
A Halloween classic that has been entertaining audiences for decades, It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown follows the Peanuts gang as they celebrate Halloween.
This heartwarming animated special explores themes of friendship, faith, and the spirit of Halloween. It's a timeless favorite for families to enjoy together.
6. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Hotel Transylvania is a delightful animated film that brings together an ensemble cast of iconic monsters, including Count Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Mummy.
The story revolves around Dracula's lavish resort for monsters and his overprotective nature concerning his daughter, Mavis. Filled with humor and positive messages, this film is perfect for a family Halloween movie night.
If you’re in the mood for a Halloween movie marathon, you can also watch Hotel Transylvania 2, Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation, and Hotel Transylvania: Transformania.
7. ParaNorman (2012)
ParaNorman is a visually stunning stop-motion animated film that follows a young boy named Norman, who has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts.
When his town is threatened by a centuries-old curse, Norman must use his supernatural gift to save the day. This film teaches valuable lessons about bravery, acceptance, and understanding differences.
8. Coraline (2009)
Coraline is a dark fantasy film based on Neil Gaiman's novel, featuring incredible stop-motion animation and a captivating storyline.
The movie follows Coraline Jones, a curious girl who discovers a parallel universe where everything seems perfect but she soon realizes that things are not what they seem.
This film is a thrilling adventure that explores bravery and appreciating what you have.
9. Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Monsters, Inc. takes a creative spin on the world of monsters by depicting them as lovable characters who power their city by collecting screams from children. When a young girl named Boo enters their world, two monsters, Sulley and Mike, embark on a heartwarming adventure to reunite her with her family. This Pixar classic combines humor, emotion, and creativity in a way that captivates both kids and adults.
10. Ghostbusters (1984)
Next on the list of family-friendly Halloween movies is a comedy classic that blends supernatural elements with hilarious antics – Ghostbusters.
When New York City faces a ghostly invasion, a group of scientists-turned-ghostbusters step up to save the day. With its memorable characters, catchy theme song, and iconic one-liners, this film is a must-watch for families looking for a spooky yet comedic Halloween experience.
The Ghostbusters franchise features 3 sequels including Ghostbusters II, Ghostbusters (2016 reboot with 4 female leades), and Ghostbusters: Afterlife.
11. Frankenweenie (2012)
From the creative mind of Tim Burton comes Frankenweenie, a heartwarming tale about a young boy named Victor who brings his beloved pet dog Sparky back to life.
This stop-motion animated film explores themes of love, loss, and the lengths to which we'll go for our furry friends. With its charming characters and Burton's signature style, Frankenweenie is an excellent choice for a family-friendly Halloween movie night.
12. The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family brings the beloved characters from the classic TV series to the big screen.
Follow the quirky and spooky Addams family as they navigate the challenges of the "normal" world while staying true to their wonderfully weird selves.
With its dark humor and endearing characters, this film is a fun and family-friendly Halloween option.
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13. Scooby-Doo (2002)
Join Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. team as they investigate supernatural mysteries at a spooky island resort.
With its blend of mystery, comedy, and nostalgia, this film offers a fun and entertaining Halloween experience for families and fans of the classic animated series.
14. Corpse Bride (2005)
Corpse Bride, another enchanting stop-motion animated film from Tim Burton, tells the story of Victor, a young man who accidentally proposes to a deceased bride while rehearsing his wedding vows in the woods.
Transported to the Land of the Dead, Victor must navigate between the worlds of the living and the deceased, while confronting themes of love, loyalty, and self-discovery.
15. The Book of Life (2014)
The Book of Life is a vibrant animated film that takes viewers on a journey through Mexican folklore. The story revolves around Manolo, a young man torn between fulfilling his family's expectations and following his heart.
With its colorful animation, catchy music, and themes of bravery and self-discovery, this film offers an engaging and culturally rich Halloween experience for families.
16. The Witches (1990)
Based on Roald Dahl's classic children's book, The Witches is a dark fantasy film that tells the story of a young boy who encounters a group of witches who plan to turn all children into mice, leading to a thrilling and magical battle between good and evil.
With its imaginative storytelling and impressive practical effects, this film offers a spooky yet enchanting Halloween experience for families.
If you've already seen the original, you may want to check out the 2020 remake.
17. The Curse of Bridge Hallow (2022)
The Curse of Bridge Hallow introduces viewers to the courageous Sydney and her family as they confront a Halloween curse that brings their decorations to life.
Filled with bravery, spooky escapades, and heartwarming moments, the film emphasizes the power of family bonds and the courage to face the unknown.
18. Halloweentown (1998)
Halloweentown whisks viewers away to a magical realm where witches, vampires, and other supernatural beings live in harmony.
When a young girl named Marnie discovers her magical heritage, she embarks on a thrilling adventure to save Halloweentown from dark forces.
Filled with enchanting characters, humor, and important lessons about embracing one's identity, the film has become a beloved classic.
For more Halloween fun, be sure to follow up this classic with Halloween Town II: Kalabar’s Revenge, Halloweentown High, and Return to Halloweentown.
19. The School For Good And Evil (2022)
Last on our list of family-friendly Halloween movies is The School for Good and Evil, which follows twin brothers Rhian and Rafal in a battle between (you guessed it) good and evil. In this enchanted world, friends Sophie and Agatha navigate contrasting schools while exploring the complexities of morality and the power of enduring friendships.
This captivating tale delves into the blurred lines between right and wrong, encapsulating themes of courage and the unwavering strength of true love.
Cozy Up For A Family-Friendly Movie Night
Movie nights have the power to bring families together, creating cherished memories and spooky traditions.
Whether you prefer friendly ghosts, mischievous witches, or adorable monsters, these family-friendly Halloween movies offer a perfect blend of entertainment, humor, and valuable life lessons.
So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a spooktacular movie night with your loved ones!
Happy Halloween!
