Halloween doesn’t have to be all about nightmares and jump scares; it can also be filled with laughter, wonder, and just the right amount of spooky fun. For families looking to set the mood without giving anyone a reason to run for the light switch, there’s a whole world of kid-friendly movies that offer cozy chills, imaginative adventures, and plenty of heart.
These films make trick-or-treating feel like it continues long after the candy is gone. From the nostalgic warmth of Hocus Pocus and Casper to the quirky brilliance of Wallace & Gromit and ParaNorman, these ten titles have stood the test of time because they make Halloween feel magical instead of menacing.
Whether you’re introducing your kids to your childhood favorites or starting a new family movie night tradition, these selections combine humor, heart, and just enough fright to keep things enjoyable.
Without further ado, here are the 10 Kid-Friendly Movies Perfect for Halloween.
10. Ernest Scared Stupid (1991)
Kicking off our countdown is Ernest Scared Stupid, a wildly goofy comedy from 1991 that blends slapstick humor with spooky adventure. The ever-energetic Jim Varney stars as Ernest, a well-meaning but bumbling man who accidentally unleashes an army of trolls on his small-town community.
What follows is a mix of rubber-suited monsters, outlandish humor, and pure ’90s chaos. It’s silly, it’s weird, and that’s exactly why it works.
Kids will love the creature effects, while parents will appreciate the wave of nostalgia brought on by Ernest’s unmistakable catchphrases, like “know what I mean?” Ernest Scared Stupid has become a campy cult favorite and is currently streaming on Prime Video.
9. Monster House (2006)
For a darker and more atmospheric experience, Monster House transforms suburban life into an exciting adventure. When three kids discover that the creepy old house on their block is literally alive, they embark on a mission to uncover its deadly secret before it’s too late.
By combining motion-capture animation with heartfelt storytelling, the film achieves a perfect balance between chills and charm.
It’s spooky enough to keep older kids engaged without crossing into nightmare territory. The film’s themes of friendship and bravery make it one of the most rewarding family horror movies of the 2000s. Monster House is currently streaming on Tubi.
8. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
No Halloween season is complete without It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. First aired in 1966, this timeless special follows Linus as he patiently waits in the pumpkin patch for the mysterious Great Pumpkin, while the rest of the Peanuts gang goes trick-or-treating.
Simple, funny, and filled with nostalgia, it serves as a perfect reminder of the innocent excitement that makes childhood holidays so magical. With Vince Guaraldi’s soothing jazz score and Charles Schulz’s gentle humor, this classic still feels just right for cozy autumn nights. You can stream it now on Apple TV+.
7. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
From clay to comedy, Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit showcases brilliant stop-motion animation perfect for Halloween night. Wallace, the quirky inventor, and his loyal dog, Gromit, must defend their village’s giant vegetable competition from a mysterious creature that has been nibbling on the prized produce.
With its sharp wit, clever visual gags, and heartfelt storyline, this film is a rare gem that entertains both children and adults alike. The humor is delightfully British, the visuals are meticulously crafted, and the result is an irresistibly charming and spooky treat. You can stream it on Apple TV+.
6. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Families looking for high-energy fun will enjoy Hotel Transylvania, a delightful mix of monsters that is more heartwarming than scary. Count Dracula, voiced by Adam Sandler, manages a luxury resort for monsters where creatures like Frankenstein, the Mummy, and the Invisible Man can relax away from the human world.
However, chaos ensues when an unsuspecting human, voiced by Andy Samberg, stumbles in and falls for Dracula’s daughter, Mavis, played by Selena Gomez. Fast-paced, funny, and filled with vibrant animation, the film transforms monster myths into comedic gold.
It’s the perfect Halloween movie that encourages you to cheer for the creatures rather than fear them, delivering a heartfelt story about family, friendship, and acceptance amidst all the gags and ghouls. Hotel Transylvania is available for streaming on The Roku Channel.
5. Scooby-Doo (2002)
In this entertaining mystery, Scooby-Doo brings to life everyone’s favorite talking Great Dane along with his ghost-hunting gang. After splitting up, the crew reunites to tackle an unusual case at Spooky Island, a theme park with some surprisingly dark secrets.
The movie embraces its cartoon roots with over-the-top energy, zany slapstick humor, and plenty of supernatural antics that keep kids entertained. With performances by Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard, and Linda Cardellini, the film captures the spirit of the original series.
Matthew Lillard’s portrayal of Shaggy is particularly noteworthy, and longtime fans will appreciate the film’s campy nods to the classic Hanna-Barbera cartoon. It’s a delightful blend of adventure, comedy, and nostalgia, and it’s available to stream now on HBO Max.
4. ParaNorman (2012)
From the studio behind Coraline comes ParaNorman, a beautifully crafted stop-motion adventure about a boy named Norman who can speak to ghosts. He must save his town from a witch’s curse that has lasted for centuries.
The film features the voices of Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, and Casey Affleck, combining witty humor with emotional depth to balance its spooky atmosphere with a powerful message about empathy and acceptance. What makes ParaNorman truly stand out is its sincerity.
The film goes beyond mere scares; it delves into themes of bullying, forgiveness, and the importance of embracing our differences. With its stunning animation and rich themes, it tells a hauntingly heartfelt story that inspires meaningful conversations long after the credits roll. ParaNorman is available for purchase on Prime Video.
3. Casper (1995)
For a dose of ’90s nostalgia, Casper remains one of the most beloved family-friendly ghost stories ever made. When a paranormal therapist and his daughter move into a haunted mansion, they encounter a friendly ghost named Casper, a lonely spirit seeking a friend, along with his mischievous uncles, who cause plenty of trouble.
Starring Christina Ricci, Bill Pullman, Malachi Pearson, and Devon Sawa, this warmhearted and slightly spooky classic combines early CGI effects with genuine emotion. Beneath its ghostly humor, Casper tells a touching story about friendship, loss, and finding one’s place in the world.
Christina Ricci shines as the fearless Kat, and Pullman adds charm as her eccentric father. Nearly three decades later, it remains a cozy Halloween favorite. Casper is available to stream on Peacock or to rent on Prime Video and Apple TV+.
2. Hocus Pocus (1993)
No Halloween list is complete without Hocus Pocus, the enchanting Disney favorite that has become a cherished seasonal tradition. When three witch sisters are accidentally resurrected in modern-day Salem on Halloween night, they unleash a wave of magical chaos in their quest for eternal youth.
Filled with mischief, music, and campy humor, the film showcases the playful side of Halloween that appeals to both kids and adults. Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy deliver unforgettable performances as the Sanderson sisters, transforming villainy into pure entertainment.
Bursting with memorable lines, outrageous costumes, and nostalgic charm, Hocus Pocus remains endlessly rewatchable and is a must-see every October. The beloved comedy is currently streaming on Disney+.
1. Halloweentown (1998)
Halloweentown tops the list as a beloved Disney Channel Original Movie that introduced a generation to the enchanting world of witches, goblins, and magic, combining thrilling moments with heartfelt emotions. The story follows a young girl who discovers her witch lineage and travels to Halloweentown, a vibrant realm filled with monsters, spells, and adventure, to help her grandmother save it from dark forces threatening their world.
Starring Debbie Reynolds, Kimberly J. Brown, and Judith Hoag, this captivating family favorite blends whimsical fantasy with a poignant coming-of-age narrative. Reynolds adds warmth and charm to her role as the wise matriarch, and the film’s imaginative world continues to captivate young viewers even decades later. Halloweentown is currently available for streaming on Disney+.
Honorable Mention: The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Although it’s not strictly a Halloween movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas deserves an honorable mention for seamlessly connecting the spooky and festive seasons. Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who discovers Christmas and decides to take over the holiday — leading to chaotic yet unforgettable results.
With voices provided by Chris Sarandon, Catherine O’Hara, and Danny Elfman, the film is a darkly whimsical, visually stunning, and iconic work. Its memorable songs have helped it become a holiday classic for audiences of all ages. While it fits perfectly into October’s spooky atmosphere, its themes of wonder, rediscovery, and joy make it an even more enjoyable watch as December approaches. You can stream The Nightmare Before Christmas on Disney+.
Whether you’re carving pumpkins, baking treats, or snuggling under a blanket with hot cocoa, these movies are perfect companions for a family Halloween night. Ranging from silly to sentimental, they demonstrate that spooky stories don’t have to be scary to be unforgettable; they just need to be filled with heart, laughter, and a touch of movie magic.
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What Halloween movies does your family love? Sound off in the comments below!
