When the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves turn fiery shades of orange and red, it can only mean one thing ... the spooky season is upon us. As Halloween descends, what better way to celebrate than curling up on the couch with a bowl of candy and immersing yourself in a few TV shows?
But it can’t be just any TV show …
From bone-chilling mysteries to supernatural adventures, these shows have all the ingredients for a perfect October night.
Here is our list of the best TV shows to watch when you’re in the Halloween mood.
RELATED: The best Halloween movies for every level of fright …
1. Stranger Things
Set in the 1980s, Stranger Things combines supernatural elements with nostalgic references. The gripping storyline centers around the disappearance of a young boy and the appearance of a girl with psychokinetic abilities.
With its supernatural creatures and government conspiracies, this series captures the essence of Halloween perfectly, making it one of our must-watch shows for the season.
2. American Horror Story
This anthology series by Ryan Murphy explores different horror themes and storylines in each season.
From haunted houses and asylums to covens of witches and creepy carnivals, American Horror Story offers a variety of spine-tingling tales. Each of which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Its inventive storytelling and exceptional performances make it a staple for Halloween enthusiasts.
3. Buffy the Vampire Slayer
A classic in the realm of supernatural TV shows, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is the perfect choice to get in the Halloween spirit. It follows Buffy Summers, a young woman chosen to battle against vampires, demons, and other dark forces.
With its perfect blend of horror, humor, and heartfelt moments, this series has become a cult favorite. Buffy's adventures in the town of Sunnydale are a thrilling choice for Halloween viewing.
4. The Haunting of Hill House
If you prefer a slow-burning, psychological horror series, The Haunting of Hill House is the perfect choice. This chilling tale revolves around a family haunted by their traumatic experiences in a haunted mansion.
With its intricate storytelling and terrifying imagery, this show will send shivers down your spine and make you question what is real and what is imagined.
5. Supernatural
Supernatural follows brothers Sam and Dean Winchester as they hunt demons, ghosts, and other supernatural entities.
With its long run and diverse array of monsters, this series offers endless hours of Halloween-themed entertainment. The strong bond between the Winchester brothers and the constant battle against evil makes this show a thrilling watch for the spooky season.
6. The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Based on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, this dark reimagining takes viewers into the occult world of Sabrina Spellman.
As she navigates the challenges of being a half-witch, half-mortal, Sabrina becomes entangled in supernatural battles and dark rituals. With its witchcraft, demons, and teenage drama, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is a bewitching choice for Halloween.
7. Scream Queens
For those who appreciate a good dose of dark humor mixed with horror, Scream Queens is the ideal Halloween series.
This satirical slasher series, created by Ryan Murphy, revolves around a college campus plagued by a series of murders. With a killer on the loose and a cast of hilariously dysfunctional characters, Scream Queens delivers sharp wit, suspenseful plot twists, and a touch of campy horror.
It's the perfect show for viewers who enjoy a blend of scares and laughs during the spooky season.
8. Locke & Key
Based on the comic book series by Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodríguez, Locke & Key is a family-friendly supernatural thriller. The show follows the Locke siblings as they discover magical keys within their ancestral home, each granting them unique powers.
As they explore the keys' origins and protect them from a sinister force, the Locke family becomes embroiled in a captivating tale of mystery and dark fantasy. With its intriguing storyline, compelling characters, and a perfect balance of supernatural elements, Locke & Key is a fantastic addition to your Halloween binge-watching list.
9. Teen Wolf
Teen Wolf follows Scott McCall, a high school student who is bitten by a werewolf. As Scott grapples with his lycanthropy, he and his friends face various supernatural threats, including other werewolves, vampires, and ancient spirits.
With its mix of coming-of-age drama and supernatural suspense, Teen Wolf offers a unique perspective on the struggles of being a teenager while dealing with the supernatural world.
10. The Vampire Diaries
Sink your teeth into the enticing world of vampires, witches, and supernatural romance with The Vampire Diaries.
Set in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, the series follows the lives of two vampire brothers, Stefan and Damon, and their entanglement with a young woman named Elena Gilbert.
Filled with love triangles, betrayals, and a myriad of supernatural creatures, this show delivers a compelling narrative. Each episode explores the complexities of immortality and the blurred lines between good and evil.
11. What We Do in the Shadows
If you're looking for a Halloween series with a hilarious twist on the supernatural, What We Do in the Shadows is the perfect addition to your watchlist. This mockumentary-style comedy series is based on the film of the same name by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi.
What We Do in the Shadows stands out for its sharp wit, witty humor, and brilliant satire of classic vampire tropes. The quirky personalities of vampire roommates, combined with their interactions with other supernatural beings, make for a refreshingly funny take on the undead.
12. Sleepy Hollow
Sleepy Hollow takes Washington Irving's classic tale and gives it a modern, supernatural twist.
The show follows Ichabod Crane, who is resurrected in the present day and partners with a police lieutenant. Together they unravel a centuries-old mystery involving supernatural forces, secret societies, and the Headless Horseman.
Set in the eerie town of Sleepy Hollow, this series combines historical elements with supernatural intrigue. All this creates a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
13. Wolf Pack
A new addition to the werewolf collection, Wolf Pack is a series that debuted in 2023. The show takes viewers on a gripping journey as it follows the lives of two teenagers whose fates become intertwined after a terrifying supernatural creature is awakened by a California wildfire.
With its suspenseful plot, supernatural twists, and teenage protagonists navigating their newfound powers, Wolf Pack promises a unique and enthralling Halloween viewing experience.
14. Sabrina the Teenage Witch
If you’re looking for something a bit more light-hearted, turn on Sabrina the Teenage Witch. With the guidance of her witty cat and her aunts, Sabrina faces both mundane teenage troubles and supernatural dilemmas. And she does it all while learning the responsibilities that come with her magical heritage.
Filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and a touch of whimsy, Sabrina the Teenage Witch is a delightful addition to your Halloween TV series marathon.
15. The Magicians
Prepare to be enchanted by The Magicians. The series follows Quentin Coldwater and his friends as they discover the magical land of Fillory and attend Brakebills University.
With a mix of fantasy, adventure, and dark undertones, this show explores the complexities of magic and the consequences of wielding extraordinary powers.
16. The Order
Dive into the supernatural world of secret societies and dark magic with The Order. This short-lived series follows college student Jack Morton as he infiltrates an ancient order. Once there, he learns about a war between werewolves and practitioners of dark arts.
With its intriguing storyline and supernatural battles, The Order delivers an intense and thrilling Halloween viewing experience.
17. Charmed
Join the Halliwell sisters in their battle against the forces of evil in Charmed. This iconic series follows the lives of three powerful witches. Together, they use their magical abilities to protect the innocent and maintain the balance between good and evil.
With its blend of sisterly bonds, supernatural threats, and magical adventures, Charmed remains a beloved choice for Halloween aficionados looking for something a little less scary but still suspenseful.
The show was also rebooted in 2018.
18. The Twilight Zone
Enter the dimension of imagination with The Twilight Zone. This classic anthology series explores the mysterious, eerie, and sometimes terrifying aspects of the human psyche.
With its thought-provoking narratives and unexpected plot twists, The Twilight Zone offers timeless tales that are perfect for late-night Halloween marathons.
19. The Walking Dead
For those who prefer their Halloween with a side of apocalyptic horror, The Walking Dead is the ultimate choice.
Follow a group of survivors as they navigate a world overrun by zombies, facing not only the undead but also the dark sides of humanity.
With its intense suspense, gripping storytelling, and memorable characters, The Walking Dead delivers an adrenaline-pumping Halloween experience.
20. Once Upon a Time
This is another for the timid-hearted Halloween lover looking to be entertained.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of fairy tales with Once Upon a Time. This series weaves together classic characters like Snow White, Captain Hook, and Rumplestiltskin into a captivating narrative that spans multiple realms and timelines.
With its magical adventures, epic battles, stunning costumes, and romantic entanglements, Once Upon a Time offers a fantastical Halloween escape.
21. Bitten
If you’re a lover of werewolves but are tired of teen dramas, dive into the heart-pounding world of Bitten. This supernatural series follows a lone female werewolf, as she navigates a complex world of supernatural politics and brutal murders.
Based on Kelley Armstrong's novels, the show delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and acceptance within the supernatural pack. With a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and action, Bitten offers a fresh perspective on werewolf mythology.
22. Boo, Bitch
Embrace the supernatural comedy of Boo, Bitch as you follow a high school senior who dies in a car accident and comes back to life as a ghost. With her newfound ghostly abilities, she seeks revenge on those who wronged her.
This fresh and witty series combines supernatural elements with teenage drama, making it a perfect addition to your Halloween TV series lineup.
23. Good Witch
This October, embrace the charm of Good Witch. This heartwarming series centers around a mysterious enchantress who changes the lives of a small town's residents.
It's a feel-good show, filled with romance, mystery, and a touch of magic. That makes it perfect for those seeking a lighter Halloween experience.
24. Being Human
Explore the challenges of supernatural beings trying to live ordinary lives in Being Human, a compelling series featuring a vampire, a werewolf, and a ghost who share a house and attempt to integrate into human society.
As they grapple with their monstrous instincts and strive for normalcy, the trio faces moral dilemmas, complex relationships, and the constant threat of exposure, making it a thought-provoking addition to your Halloween TV series lineup.
25. Bates Motel
Delve into the chilling backstory of Norman Bates in Bates Motel, a psychological horror series that explores his complex relationship with his mother, Norma, and the events leading up to the iconic film Psycho.
Set in a small town, the series delves into the darkness within the seemingly idyllic Bates family, unraveling secrets, murder, and psychological intrigue, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere perfect for Halloween viewing.
26. Hannibal
Experience the macabre brilliance of Hannibal, a psychological thriller centered around the relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and the brilliant psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer, Hannibal Lecter.
Filled with intense psychological battles, artistic crime scenes, and a hauntingly captivating narrative, this series offers a dark and sophisticated exploration of the human psyche and the horrors within, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
27. Lovecraft Country
Uncover supernatural terrors in Lovecraft Country, a genre-bending series set in the 1950s.
Based on the novel by Matt Ruff, the show follows Atticus Freeman and his family as they embark on a road trip across Jim Crow America, encountering both racist atrocities and Lovecraftian monsters.
Blending social commentary with cosmic horror, this series provides a unique perspective on traditional horror themes, offering a thought-provoking and spine-chilling Halloween experience.
28. Black Summer
Another one for the zombie lovers out there!
Enter a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies in Black Summer, a suspenseful series that follows a group of survivors as they navigate the dangers of a zombie apocalypse.
With its intense action sequences, realistic portrayal of survival instincts, and relentless pursuit by the undead, this show offers a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping Halloween viewing experience.
29. Penny Dreadful
Step into the dark and mysterious world of Penny Dreadful, a horror drama series that brings together iconic literary characters like Dr. Frankenstein, Dorian Gray, and Dracula in a twisted tale of supernatural intrigue.
Set in Victorian London, the series explores themes of love, redemption, and the battle between good and evil, creating a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric experience perfect for Halloween.
30. Wednesday
In this show, Wednesday Addams uses her psychic abilities to solve a murder mystery, all while dealing with her peculiar family dynamics and her new schoolmates' monstrous quirks.
With a stellar cast, dark humor, and Tim Burton's signature style, Wednesday promises a blend of supernatural intrigue, teenage angst, and eerie adventures, making it a delightful addition to your Halloween TV series lineup.
31. Black Mirror
Question the very fabric of reality with Black Mirror, an anthology series that delves into the dark side of technology and its impact on society. Each episode presents a standalone story, exploring dystopian futures, thought-provoking ethical dilemmas, and the consequences of technological advancements gone awry.
With its chilling and often disturbing narratives, Black Mirror offers a glimpse into possible futures, where humanity's relationship with technology takes center stage.
The Best TV Shows To Watch Leading Up To Halloween
As Halloween approaches, these TV series offer the perfect blend of scares, thrills, and supernatural intrigue to elevate your spooky season.
Whether you enjoy supernatural mysteries, psychological horror, or supernatural adventures, these shows have something for every Halloween enthusiast.
Happy haunting!
