Top 10 Kid-Friendly Halloween Movies for Family Frights
- Joao Nsita
- Oct 6, 2024
- 6 min read
Halloween is just around the corner, and there's nothing quite like gathering with family for a night of laughter, spooky fun, and just the right amount of thrills. Whether it's witches, ghosts, or charming ghouls, kid-friendly Halloween movies have a way of delighting audiences of all ages. We rounded up the top 10 family-friendly Halloween movies that are perfect for a night of frights without the nightmares.
Grab the popcorn, snuggle in, and let’s take a look at the best family frights for this Halloween season!
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Nothing says Halloween like the Sanderson sisters! Hocus Pocus is a classic that has stood the test of time for good reason. Starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the quirky trio of witches accidentally resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, this movie offers a perfect blend of humor, magic, and just a touch of spookiness.
The storyline revolves around a group of kids who must stop the sisters from taking over the town on Halloween night. With plenty of fun songs, quirky spells, and hilarious antics, Hocus Pocus is a must-watch for families who want to get into the spirit of Halloween.
Where to Watch: Stream on Disney+
2. Beetlejuice (1988)
If you’re looking for something with a bit of spooky humor and a lot of quirky charm, Beetlejuice is the perfect pick. Directed by Tim Burton, this movie follows a recently deceased couple who haunt their old home and enlist the help of the eccentric ghost Beetlejuice, played by Michael Keaton, to scare away the new inhabitants.
The spooky, surreal world created by Burton is the perfect setting for a Halloween movie night. With a stellar cast that includes Winona Ryder, Geena Davis, and Alec Baldwin, Beetlejuice is both playful and a little macabre—but never too scary for the little ones.
Where to Watch: Stream on Max
3. The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family brings the kookiest family to life in this film adaptation of the beloved TV show. The Addams—a family that takes the concept of "creepy and kooky" to a whole new level—live in a mansion filled with oddities and mischief. When Uncle Fester returns, the family is thrown into chaos, but it’s nothing they can’t handle with a bit of dark humor and love.
This movie’s combination of hilarity and eccentricity makes it perfect for families who enjoy quirky comedy with a spooky twist. It’s a movie that appeals to both adults who grew up with the original series and kids meeting the Addams for the first time.
Where to Watch: Stream on Paramount+
4. Halloweentown (1998)
For a generation of kids who grew up on Disney Channel Original Movies, Halloweentown holds a special place in their hearts. This magical story follows Marnie, a young witch, as she discovers her powers and visits Halloweentown—a place full of supernatural creatures and Halloween cheer.
The charming, magical setting and wholesome family vibes make Halloweentown a staple for any kid-friendly Halloween movie night. It's adventurous without being too scary, perfect for kids who are just getting into the Halloween spirit.
Where to Watch: Stream on Disney+
5. Casper (1995)
Casper, the "friendly ghost," is the perfect way to introduce younger kids to ghost stories without scaring them to bits. Casper is a sweet, lonely ghost who haunts a mansion in Maine. When a paranormal therapist, played by Bill Pullman, moves in with his daughter Kat (Christina Ricci), Casper finds himself befriending the family—and falling for Kat.
With its gentle humor and themes of friendship, Casper is a wonderful introduction to Halloween films. Plus, the ghostly shenanigans and the friendship between Casper and Kat make this a charming and light-hearted choice.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video
6. The Haunted Mansion (2003)
Inspired by the popular Disney ride, The Haunted Mansion features Eddie Murphy as a real estate agent who brings his family to a mysterious mansion, only to discover that it's haunted by 999 ghosts! The comedy-horror plot makes it ideal for families, as it provides laughs alongside spooky surprises.
With fun special effects, ghostly characters, and an adventure-filled storyline, The Haunted Mansion offers a great balance of eerie and entertaining that’s perfect for a family Halloween night.
Where to Watch: Stream on Disney+
7. Ghostbusters (1984)
Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters! This beloved 1984 classic follows four quirky scientists who start a ghost-hunting business in New York City. With iconic characters, memorable one-liners, and plenty of ghostly fun, this movie is a surefire hit for both adults and kids.
The balance of humor, sci-fi, and spooky elements makes it great for a Halloween watch. Although it has a few jumpy moments, it’s primarily a comedy, making it a great pick for kids who are ready for a little adventure.
Where to Watch: Stream on Starz
8. Twitches (2005)
If you love magic and twin sister shenanigans, Twitches is the movie for you. Tia and Tamera Mowry star as twin witches who were separated at birth and reunite on their 21st birthday. The sisters discover their magical powers and must work together to save their magical homeland from a dark force.
This film is full of fun, magic, and sibling bonding—all the things you want for a cozy Halloween family night. The heartfelt connection between the twins and their magical journey is a joy to watch.
Where to Watch: Stream on Disney+
9. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Is it a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? The answer is: both! The Nightmare Before Christmas, created by Tim Burton, tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to bring the festivities back to his spooky world. The stop-motion animation is gorgeous, and the songs are iconic.
It’s filled with Halloween imagery—jack-o'-lanterns, ghosts, skeletons—while maintaining the heartwarming message of finding joy in the unfamiliar. This movie is a visual delight and a perfect choice for those who love both holidays.
Where to Watch: Stream on Disney+
10. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Hotel Transylvania brings the laughs with Dracula, played by Adam Sandler, running a high-end resort for monsters. But things take a turn when a human boy stumbles in and catches the eye of Dracula’s daughter, Mavis. With an all-star voice cast and a hilarious storyline, this animated film offers a fresh take on classic monsters, making it engaging for kids and adults alike.
With fast-paced comedy, adorable monster characters, and heartwarming father-daughter moments, Hotel Transylvania is a fantastic choice for Halloween without the scares.
Where to Watch: Stream on Peacock
Embrace the Fun of Halloween with Family Frights
Whether you’re in the mood for charming ghosts, witchy adventures, or hilarious hauntings, these ten kid-friendly Halloween movies are sure to provide a night of fun for the whole family. From the timeless magic of Hocus Pocus to the kooky antics of Beetlejuice, and even the thrills of The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty, there’s a little something for everyone—plenty of spooky fun without the nightmares!
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