Best Halloween Movies for Kids and Families

Halloween movie night calls for cosy pyjamas, a mountain of popcorn and just the right amount of spooky fun. Whether your little ones prefer friendly pumpkins or your older kids are ready for something a little scarier, there is a Halloween film for every family.

From animated favourites to nostalgic classics, here are the best Halloween movies for kids and families to add to your watchlist this October.

Best Halloween Movies for Younger Kids

1. Room on the Broom

Based on Julia Donaldson’s much loved book, this charming animated adventure follows a friendly witch and her animal companions. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who enjoy a little magic without the scares.

2. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang celebrate Halloween in this timeless animated classic. Its gentle humour and nostalgic charm make it ideal for a relaxed family film night.

3. Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest

Join Curious George for a cheerful Halloween adventure filled with costumes, pumpkins and a mystery to solve. A lovely pick for younger children who prefer fun to fright.

4. Winnie the Pooh: Boo to You Too!

Pooh and his friends discover the excitement of Halloween in the Hundred Acre Wood. With familiar characters and gentle spooky moments, it is perfect for little ones.

5. Spookley the Square Pumpkin

Spookley is a pumpkin who learns that being different is something to celebrate. This sweet Halloween story combines seasonal fun with a lovely message about kindness and acceptance.

6. The Super Monsters Save Halloween

The little monsters use their special powers to help make Halloween fun for everyone. It is a playful choice for preschoolers who love colourful characters and friendly Halloween adventures.

Best Halloween Movies for Primary School Kids

7. Hotel Transylvania

Dracula runs a hotel for monsters, but things get complicated when a human arrives. Packed with silly jokes and lovable creatures, this animated comedy is entertaining for children and grown ups alike.

8. Hocus Pocus

Three witches return to Salem and cause magical chaos in this Halloween favourite. Expect funny moments, memorable characters and plenty of spooky atmosphere. Best for school aged children who are comfortable with witches and supernatural scenes.

9. The Addams Family

This quirky animated comedy follows a wonderfully unusual family with a taste for all things spooky. Wednesday’s deadpan humour and the family’s eccentric antics make it a brilliant Halloween pick.

10. Casper

Meet the friendly ghost who just wants to make friends. With a mix of humour, adventure and a little emotion, Casper is a nostalgic choice for families who enjoy a classic ghost story.

11. The Nightmare Before Christmas

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, discovers Christmas and attempts to bring it to Halloween Town. With catchy songs and imaginative animation, this stop motion classic is ideal for children who enjoy a darker, slightly quirky style.

12. Frankenweenie

When a young boy brings his beloved dog back to life, an unusual adventure begins. Tim Burton’s black and white animation gives this film a spooky look, so it is best for children who enjoy slightly darker stories.

13. Monster House

Three children become convinced that a neighbouring house is alive, leading to a mysterious and spooky adventure. It is a fun choice for older primary school children, although some scenes may be frightening for younger viewers.

14. Goosebumps

Inspired by R. L. Stine’s popular books, this adventure unleashes monsters from their stories into the real world. Expect action, comedy and jumpy moments for children ready for something a little scarier.

Best Halloween Movies for Older Kids and Teens

15. Coraline

A girl discovers a secret door leading to a seemingly perfect alternative world. This visually stunning animated film becomes increasingly unsettling, making it better suited to older children who enjoy genuine suspense.

16. Ghostbusters

A team of eccentric scientists set out to capture ghosts in New York City. With comedy, supernatural adventures and plenty of nostalgia, the original film is a fun option for older kids and parents.

17. The Witches

Based on Roald Dahl’s classic story, this fantasy follows a young boy who discovers a sinister gathering of witches. The frightening transformations and darker scenes mean it is best for children who enjoy spooky stories.

18. ParaNorman

A boy who can speak to the dead must help his town face a centuries old curse. This imaginative animated film blends humour, adventure and spooky moments with a thoughtful message about kindness.

19. Halloweentown

A young girl discovers that she comes from a family of witches and enters a magical town filled with supernatural characters. This nostalgic Disney favourite is a great option for children who enjoy fantasy adventures.

20. The Haunted Mansion

Inspired by the famous Disney attraction, this supernatural comedy follows a family dealing with a mansion full of ghosts. It combines mystery and humour, although the scarier scenes may not suit younger viewers.

More Family Friendly Halloween Movies to Add to Your List

Looking for even more options? These films are worth considering for your next Halloween movie marathon.

For younger children: Mickey’s House of Villains, Super Monsters: Dia de los Monsters, Mickey’s Tale of Two Witches and The Halloween Tree.

For animated adventures: Monster Family, The Book of Life, Scoob! and The Little Vampire.

For older children: Beetlejuice, The Haunted Mansion (2003), Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children and The House with a Clock in Its Walls.

Some of these titles contain scarier scenes or more mature themes, so check the age rating and parental guidance before watching.