I love Halloween! I love the costumes, candy, and fun that come with this spooky holiday. I always look forward to spending cozy autumn nights watching slightly spooky movies with my family. As a parent, it’s important to find the right balance between films that provide spooky vibes without giving your kids nightmares. Luckily, there are plenty of Halloween movies out there that cater to kids, and I can’t wait to share my favorites with you!
Classic Halloween Movies for Kids
From animated classics like “The Nightmare Before Christmas” to fun-filled adventures like “Hocus Pocus,” these movies are perfect for getting the whole family in the Halloween spirit. Let’s get started!
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” is a classic Halloween movie for kids that’s been loved by generations. This is one of my top picks. I watched it every year with my family growing up, and I do the same with my kids now. This animated film features the Peanuts gang celebrating Halloween, while Linus waits for the Great Pumpkin. It’s a light-hearted comedy perfect for your young children, and you will enjoy the nostalgia of watching it with them.
Hocus Pocus
No products found.
As a family-friendly horror comedy, “Hocus Pocus” has been entertaining kids and adults alike since its release in 1993. The movie follows the story of three witch sisters who are accidentally resurrected by a young boy on Halloween night. Filled with spooky fun and age-appropriate laughs, “Hocus Pocus” is a Halloween favorite that never gets old. Even my little kids love this movie.
Casper
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Bill Pullman, Christina Ricci, Cathy Moriarty (Actors)
“Casper,” is a friendly ghost who works to befriend a young girl while also trying to reunite with his own family. The movie is a perfect mix of comedy, ghosts, and family love, making it an entertaining Halloween film for kids of all ages. It’s light on scares and heavy on heart. Your kids will love it.
The Addams Family
- Christina Ricci, Anjelica Huston, Joan Cusack (Actors)
- Barry Sonnenfeld (Director)
My family just watched this movie together and my kids loved it! When it comes to introducing children to Halloween-themed movies, one can’t go wrong with “The Addams Family.” This dark comedy features the spooky, eccentric family we all know and love, and it is an excellent choice for kids who enjoy a bit of creepy humor. The film’s mix of laughs and mild scares make it a Halloween staple.
Monster House
- Ryan Whitney, Steve Buscemi, Mitchel Musso (Actors)
- Gil Kenan (Director)
“Monster House” is an animated film that cleverly combines a spooky atmosphere with a heartwarming story. It centers around three kids who discover that their neighbor’s house is actually a living, breathing monster. This film is suitable for kids, providing just the right amount of creepiness without being too scary.
The Witches
Based on the popular book by Roald Dahl, “The Witches” tells the story of a young boy who encounters a group of witches plotting to turn children into mice. Although the film has its scary moments, it also includes a good dose of humor and an engaging plot that keeps the interest of both kids and adults. It’s a thrilling and enchanting Halloween movie for your whole family.
Coco
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt (Actors)
When it comes to Halloween movies for your kids, “Coco” is a gem. The Pixar movie follows young Miguel as he enters the Land of the Dead to find his great-great-grandfather. Full of vibrant colors and mesmerizing music, this movie is an excellent way to introduce the Dia de los Muertos concept to children. My kids love to watch this movie all year long. Coco” is a must-watch for the spooky season.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Chris Sarandon, Catherine O’Hara, William Hickey (Actors)
If I had a number one movie that my kids love to watch at Halloween, it would be “The Nightmare Before Christmas”. This is a Tim Burton classic that has become a staple for both Halloween and Christmas celebrations. This stop-motion animation film tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon Christmas Town and wants to bring the holiday back to his own world. With its catchy music and unforgettable characters, this movie is perfect for kids who love both Halloween and Christmas themes.
Coraline
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders (Actors)
Diving into a darker territory, “Coraline” is a stop-motion animated film based on Neil Gaiman’s book. Coraline discovers a hidden door in her new home, leading her to an alternate world that seems better than her real life. However, she quickly learns that not everything is as it seems. This movie is a classic that many love, but I haven’t found that my kids love it enough to watch it often. I would say this movie is ideal for slightly older kids who appreciate a spooky story with a touch of mystery.
Frankenweenie
Another Tim Burton creation, “Frankenweenie” is a stop-motion animated film that shows the lengths that a boy named Victor will go to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life. This movie’s black and white visuals make the story even more enthralling. My five-year-old loved this movie and thought it was funny more than scary. With elements of horror and comedy, “Frankenweenie” is a fantastic addition to your Halloween movie list.
Monsters, Inc
![Monsters, Inc. [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61i7R1N2zuL.jpg)
- Pete Docter (Director) – Darla Anderson (Producer)
- Audience Rating: G (General Audience)
While it may not be the first film you think of when you think of Halloween, “Monsters, Inc.” is a family favorite that captures the world of monsters in a fun, not-scary way. The main characters, Sulley and Mike, work at a scream-processing factory powered by the frightened screams of children. However, their world is turned upside down when they accidentally bring a human child into their realm. This movie is a great way to bring a lighthearted twist to the monster theme for your Halloween movie night.
Toy Story of Terror
If your kids love the “Toy Story” films, then they’ll surely enjoy “Toy Story of Terror.” This short film follows the beloved toys on a spooky adventure when they find themselves at a creepy motel during a road trip. With familiar faces and a friendly tone, this movie makes a wonderful addition to your Halloween collection. I don’t think this movie is very scary, but my younger kids did get a little spooked while watching “Toy Story of Terror”.
The Haunted Mansion
![Haunted Mansion [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516WBE+gVLL.jpg)
- Owen Wilson, Rosario Dawson, Danny DeVito (Actors)
- Justin Simien (Director) – Jonathan Eirich (Producer)
Another great Halloween movie for kids is The Haunted Mansion, featuring Eddie Murphy. This film combines humor, mystery, and thrills, making it a perfect pick for the whole family. The story revolves around a realtor who stumbles upon an old, haunted mansion filled with ghosts, danger, and touching stories about the afterlife. The movie is both exciting and charming, making it an excellent option for younger viewers who may not be ready for scarier films.
Halloweentown
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
- Debbie Reynolds, Kimberly Brown, Judith Hoag (Actors)
Another great choice for kids is Halloweentown, a Disney Channel classic. This movie follows a young girl who discovers that her family comes from a magical place called Halloweentown. Filled with witches, ghosts, and a sense of adventure, this movie will surely captivate your little ones. The film teaches valuable lessons about family, friendship, and bravery.
Goosebumps
![Goosebumps (2015) / Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51i2epeLebL.jpg)
- Rush, Odeya, Black, Jack, Ryan, Amy (Actors)
- Letterman, Rob (Director)
Did you read Goosbumps books as a kid? I did! Goosebumps is another excellent Halloween movie for kids, especially if they are fans of R.L. Stine’s books. The film takes viewers on a thrilling adventure filled with danger, mystery, and friendship. A group of children accidentally releases the monsters from Stine’s books and must save their town from the ensuing chaos. It’s a fun, spooky movie that is just right for kids who enjoy a dose of excitement.
The Muppets Haunted Mansion
For fans of the Muppets, The Muppets Haunted Mansion is perfect for a kid-friendly Halloween treat. Join Gonzo and Pepe the King Prawn as they spend the night in a haunted mansion, while the rest of the gang celebrates Halloween. This movie is both fun and spooky, with a strong message of friendship and teamwork. This is one of my personal favorites for my kids because I know it’s a little spooky, but lots of fun.
Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie
![Pooh's Heffalump Halloween Movie [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ZSnc3uxxL.jpg)
- It’s a hilariously haunting Halloween in the 100 Acre Wood. Roo’s best new pal, Lumpy, is excited to trick-or-treat for the first time . until Tigger warns them about the dreaded Gobloon, who’ll turn you into a Jaggedy Lantern if he catches you. But if they catch the Gobloon before it catches them, they get to make a wish! With Roo by his side, Lumpy knows he can face anything. So whe
- Jimmy Bennett, Peter Cullen, Jim Cummings (Actors)
For very young children, Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie is a gentle, toddler-friendly option. The Hundred Acre Wood gang embarks on a Halloween adventure, where they learn about the value of friendship and courage. The movie is an excellent choice for introducing little ones to the festivities of Halloween, without any scary elements.
Beetlejuice
- Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Jeffrey Jones (Actors)
- Tim Burton (Director)
I remember watching Beetlejuice as a kid. It is a delightful mix of charm and spookiness. It’s one of the Halloween movies for kids that manages to be age-appropriate, while still having plenty of frightful moments to keep things interesting.
Spirited Away
- Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki (Actors)
- Hayao Miyazaki (Director) – Toshio Suzuki (Producer)
In my opinion, Spirited Away is one of the most enchanting Halloween movies for kids. The captivating world of spirits, witches, and magic has an evil twist that can capture the imagination of any child.
ParaNorman
![ParaNorman [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61ghxvSf69L.jpg)
- Kodi Smit-McPhee, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick (Actors)
- Sam Fell (Director) – Chris Butler (Writer) – Arianne Sutner (Producer)
ParaNorman is a movie that masterfully combines zombies, wizardry, and ghosts to create a family-friendly Halloween experience. I appreciate how the film explores themes of friendship and acceptance, all while offering a good dose of spooky fun. My five-year-old did find parts of this movie to be a little too scary, so keep that in mind for younger kids.
The Dark Crystal
![The Dark Crystal [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/611XEEHue4L.jpg)
The Dark Crystal is a classic that’s perfect for Halloween. It was a staple in my house growing up. Its richly detailed fantasy world and mesmerizing creatures give the story an eerie atmosphere. The movie’s story of good versus evil makes it an engaging choice for kids during the holidays.
Return to Oz
![Return To Oz [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51FJTB77g-L.jpg)
- Factory sealed DVD
- Fairuza Balk, Nicol Williamson, Jean Marsh (Actors)
Although Return to Oz deviates from the original Wizard of Oz story, I find it to be an interesting take on the beloved tale. The eerie version of Oz and its strange inhabitants will captivate children looking for something a bit more sinister than the original.
The Spiderwick Chronicles
No products found.
The Spiderwick Chronicles is a captivating family-friendly movie that brings the world of hidden creatures to life. The adventure, blended with magical elements and suspense, makes it a fantastic choice for kids seeking a spooky Halloween experience.
The Halloween Tree
- Ray Bradbury, Leonard Nimoy, Annie Barker (Actors)
- Mario Piluso (Director) – Ray Bradbury (Writer) – David Kirschner (Producer)
The Halloween Tree is an animated adventure that takes viewers on a journey through the history of the holiday. What I enjoy about this movie is how it combines education and entertainment, making it a great Halloween pick for kids and families.
The Boxtrolls
![The Boxtrolls - Limited Edition Steelbook 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray [4K UHD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51m-iPWyN9L.jpg)
- Ben Kingsley, Isaac Hempstead Wright, Elle Fanning (Actors)
- Anthony Stacchi (Director) – David Bleiman Ichioka (Producer)
The Boxtrolls is a uniquely creative animated film that explores the lives of odd creatures living beneath a city. With endearing characters and an engaging plot, it’s a delightful movie for children to watch around Halloween.
Spookley the Square Pumpkin
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Sonja Ball, Craig Francis, Rick Jones (Actors)
Finally, Spookley the Square Pumpkin is an adorable Halloween movie for younger kids. Its cute storytelling and fun animation make it an ideal introduction to the spooky holiday for little ones, while emphasizing the importance of being unique and accepting others.
Bedknobs and Broomsticks
![Bedknobs And Broomsticks (Special Edition) [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51wpSn8j7aL.jpg)
- Factory sealed DVD
- Angela Lansbury, Roddy McDowall, Reginald Owen (Actors)
Bedknobs and Broomsticks is a fantastic movie for little ones to enjoy around Halloween. This delightful Disney classic from 1971 stars Angela Lansbury as a magical witch who, along with a conman and three resourceful children, embarks on a series of enchanting adventures. The movie combines live-action with animation, making it engaging and visually appealing.
Although the movie might have a few spooky scenes, I believe that the overall story is perfect for little ones who enjoy a touch of magic and whimsy. Thanks to its engaging characters and captivating storyline, Bedknobs and Broomsticks can provide a thrilling yet age-appropriate Halloween movie experience.
The Black Cauldron
- Factory sealed DVD
- Grant Bardsley, Susan Sheridan, Freddie Jones (Actors)
Another great Halloween movie for little ones would be The Black Cauldron. Released in 1985, this animated Disney film is based on the fantasy book series by Lloyd Alexander. The movie revolves around a young boy named Taran, who sets out on a quest to find a magical cauldron that has the power to stop the evil Horned King.
While The Black Cauldron does contain some darker elements and thrilling scenes, I think it is still appropriate for most little ones, as the overall story focuses on bravery, friendship, and good overcoming evil. I would recommend it for children who are ready to explore a more adventurous tale without delving into intense horror.
As I’ve explored various options for kid-friendly Halloween movies, I’ve discovered a fantastic range of films that cater to different ages and tastes. Some of my personal favorites include Muppet Haunted Mansion and Hocus Pocus, which are a perfect blend of spookiness and fun.
Platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime offer a diverse selection of Halloween movies for kids, including PG-13 horror flicks, cute cartoons, dark comedies, and eerie stop-motion animations. This makes it easy for families to find the perfect film for your Halloween celebration.
As always, you know your kids best. Some kids are non-phased by movies like “Nightmare Before Christmas”, and others may be scared.
