Looking for the perfect Halloween movies to watch with your family? You’re in the right place.
I’ve got a killer list that’ll keep everyone entertained, from the little ones to the grandparents.
Let’s jump in and find your next family movie night hit.
Why Halloween Movies Rock for Family Bonding
Halloween movies are like the secret sauce for family nights. Here’s why:
- They bring everyone together (even the moody teenagers)
- You get to share some laughs (and maybe a few jumps)
- It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit without leaving your couch
Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to eat some Halloween cookies while watching a movie?
Top Picks for Your Halloween Family Movie Night
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
This classic is like the godfather of Halloween family movies.
Why it’s awesome:
- Witchy humor that’ll crack up both kids and adults
- Talking cat (need I say more?)
- Catchy musical numbers
Fun fact: The sequel came out in 2022, so you can make it a double feature!
2. Ghostbusters (1984)
Who you gonna call? Your family to the living room, that’s who.
What makes it great:
- Iconic one-liners
- Cool ghost-catching action
- A giant marshmallow man (yes, really)
Pro tip: Make some s’mores to eat during the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man scene.
3. Coraline (2009)
A bit creepy, a lot awesome. This stop-motion masterpiece is perfect for slightly older kids and adults.
Why it’s a must-watch:
- Stunning visuals
- A story that’s both spooky and heartwarming
- Characters with button eyes (oddly cool and creepy at the same time)
Warning: Might make you appreciate your parents more, even if they don’t have button eyes.
4. The Addams Family (1991)
They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky. And perfect for your family movie night.
What’s to love:
- Dark humor that’ll make you snort-laugh
- Wednesday Addams (enough said)
- A family that puts the “fun” in dysfunctional
Bonus: Great inspiration for family Halloween costumes!
5. Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Pixar nails it again with this monster-filled adventure.
Why it’s a winner:
- Adorable monsters (yes, that’s a thing)
- Funny for all ages
- Heartwarming story about friendship
Fun activity: Have the kids draw their own monsters before watching.
6. Coco (2017)
Not your typical Halloween movie, but it’s all about the Day of the Dead, so it counts.
What makes it special:
- Gorgeous animation
- Beautiful music
- A touching story about family and remembrance
Tip: Keep some tissues handy. It might get a bit emotional.
7. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Is it a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? Why not both?
Why you’ll love it:
- Tim Burton’s unique style
- Catchy songs you’ll be humming for days
- A love story that’s sweet but not sappy
Debate topic: Have the family vote on whether it’s more Halloween or Christmas.
8. Casper (1995)
The friendliest ghost you’ll ever meet brings laughs and heart to your Halloween night.
What’s great about it:
- A ghost story that’s more charming than scary
- Fun special effects (for the 90s, at least)
- A sweet message about friendship and acceptance
Fun fact: Keep an eye out for the cameos from other famous movie ghosts!
9. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Dracula as an overprotective dad? Count me in!
Why it’s awesome:
- Star-studded voice cast
- Clever monster jokes and puns
- A story that’s all about family (just like your movie night)
Activity idea: Try speaking like Dracula for the rest of the night. Bleh bleh bleh!
10. Beetlejuice (1988)
It’s showtime! This Tim Burton classic is perfect for families with older kids.
What makes it a must-see:
- Wacky, offbeat humor
- Incredible practical effects and makeup
- Michael Keaton’s unforgettable performance
Warning: You might find yourself randomly saying “Beetlejuice” three times after watching.
11. ParaNorman (2012)
A misunderstood kid who can talk to ghosts? Sign me up!
Why you’ll dig it:
- Beautiful stop-motion animation
- A story about accepting differences
- Just the right balance of spooky and sweet
Cool tidbit: Look out for horror movie references sprinkled throughout!
12. The Witches (1990)
Based on Roald Dahl’s book, this one’s delightfully wicked.
What’s to love:
- Anjelica Huston’s terrifying/amazing performance
- A mix of humor and mild scares
- Fantastic practical effects
Heads up: Might make you suspicious of women wearing gloves and wigs for a while.
13. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Okay, not strictly Halloween, but it’s got trick-or-treating, so it counts!
Why it’s perfect:
- A classic that still holds up
- That iconic flying bicycle scene
- Guaranteed to give you all the feels
Movie night idea: Serve Reese’s Pieces as your movie snack!
14. Frankenweenie (2012)
Tim Burton’s take on the Frankenstein story, but with a cute dog!
What’s great about it:
- Black and white animation that pops
- A heartwarming story about a boy and his dog
- Packed with classic horror movie references
Fun game: Count how many old horror movies you can spot references to.
15. The Book of Life (2014)
Another Day of the Dead-themed movie that’s perfect for Halloween.
Why you’ll love it:
- Stunning visuals inspired by Mexican folk art
- Great music with a Latin flair
- A story about following your heart
Activity: After the movie, try making your own sugar skulls!
16. Goosebumps (2015)
R.L. Stine’s beloved book series comes to life in this monster-filled adventure.
Why it’s a hit:
- Tons of nostalgia for parents who read the books
- A perfect blend of scares and laughs
- Jack Black’s hilarious performance as R.L. Stine
Fun idea: Have a Goosebumps book reading session before the movie.
17. The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
Magic, mystery, and a creepy old house – what’s not to love?
What makes it great:
- Fantastic performances by Jack Black and Cate Blanchett
- A mix of whimsical magic and spooky moments
- Cool steampunk-inspired visuals
Activity: Try to spot all the different clocks in the movie.
18. Onward (2020)
While not strictly a Halloween movie, its focus on magic and fantastical creatures makes it a great fit.
Why you’ll enjoy it:
- Pixar’s signature blend of humor and heart
- A unique take on a modern fantasy world
- Touching story about family bonds
Fun fact: Look out for hidden Easter eggs referencing other Pixar films.
19. The Addams Family (2019)
This animated reboot brings the creepy, kooky clan to a new generation.
What’s to love:
- Updated humor that still captures the original’s spirit
- Great voice cast including Oscar Isaac and Charlize Theron
- Themes of acceptance and being true to yourself
Game idea: Have a family competition to see who can do the best Addams Family snap.
20. Cruella (2021)
Not your typical Halloween movie, but with its fashion-forward villainess and slightly darker tone, it fits right in.
Why it’s awesome:
- Emma Stone’s captivating performance
- Stunning costume design
- A villain origin story that’s surprisingly relatable
Activity: Have a family fashion show with your wildest outfits after the movie.
How to Make Your Family Movie Night Extra Special
Want to level up your Halloween movie experience? Try these ideas:
1. Build a blanket fort: Because everything’s better in a fort.
2. Make themed snacks: Ghost-shaped cookies, anyone?
3. Dress up: Who says costumes are just for trick-or-treating?
4. Create a spooky atmosphere: Dim the lights and add some (battery-operated) candles.
5. Have a movie marathon: Pick a few from the list and make a night of it.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it – your ultimate guide to the best Halloween movies for family night.
Whether you’re into classic monsters, animated adventures, or just some good old-fashioned spooky fun, there’s something here for everyone.
So grab the popcorn, gather the family, and get ready for a Halloween movie night that’ll have everyone howling with laughter (and maybe a few friendly scares).
Remember, the best part of family movie night isn’t just the movie – it’s the memories you make together.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a date with a talking cat and three witches. Happy watching!