Halloween Movie Night Ideas That Aren’t Super Scary

There’s something magical about the fall (yep, I’m a fall gal). The cooler air, the faint scent of cinnamon everything mixed with the cozy scent of spiced candles, and the promise of cozy evenings curled up under a throw blanket. I don’t know about you, but once the calendar flips to October, I’m ready for all things Halloween—minus the adrenaline spikes, of course.

Truth be told, I’m a Halloween movie lightweight. I don’t do horror. Like at all. Not even the old-school ones. (I once had to sleep with the lights on after watching Poltergeist, if that tells you anything—and that’s also why you won’t find that movie on this list, haha.) But give me a flick with autumn vibes, some light suspense, a friendly ghost, or a talking black cat? Yep, I’m all in.

So, in the spirit of festive fun without the nightmares, here’s a list of Halloween-ish movies that are perfect for a night in. Light a candle, pour some cider (or wine), and settle in with one of these not-so-spooky picks by yours truly.

1. Hocus Pocus (1993)

A classic, obviously. Three chaotic witches, a talking cat, and a candle that really should not have been lit. Silly, quotable, and the very definition of nostalgic.

“It’s just a bunch of hocus pocus.”

— Me, to myself, while lighting my sixth fall-scented candle of the season.

2. Casper (1995)

Sweet, sappy, and just eerie enough to count. Plus, who didn’t have a crush on Devon Sawa at the end of this movie? (Be honest.)

3. Practical Magic (1998)

Witchy sisters, moonlit margaritas, and a little murder (but make it aesthetic). This one leans more adult, but it’s basically a cozy sweater in movie form.

4. The Addams Family (1991)

Macabre but not scary, weird in the best way, and so stylish it’s actually unfair. Morticia and Gomez are relationship goals. Wednesday is the Halloween mascot we all deserve.

5. Hotel Transylvania (2012)

If you’re watching with kids—or just want something lighthearted—this animated monster mash is surprisingly clever and sweet. Zero gore, 100% dad jokes.

6. The Witches (1990 or 2020)

Both versions are delightfully creepy without crossing the line into nightmare fuel. Angelica Huston in the original is pure Halloween energy.

7. Ghostbusters (1984)

Silly ghosts, iconic music, and zero gore. It’s action-comedy with just enough spooky stuff to feel on-theme—plus, who doesn’t love a Stay Puft Marshmallow Man?

8. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Not technically a Halloween movie, but it has an iconic Halloween scene, complete with trick-or-treating and a ghost costume. Heartwarming and just weird enough.

9. Coraline (2009)

Okay yes, this one is a little creepy. But it’s beautifully made and, depending on your scare tolerance, totally worth it. Just maybe keep a lamp on.

10. Beetlejuice (1988)

Strange, spooky, and stylish. Tim Burton at his peak. It’s weird, it’s funny, and it’s basically Halloween in movie form.

11. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Is it a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? The great debate. Either way, it’s Tim Burton magic with catchy songs and a lot of skeleton flair.

12. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Dark fairytale vibes, not quite Halloween-specific but moody and gothic enough to make the list. Plus, Johnny Depp in his brooding, pre-pirate era.

13. The Haunted Mansion (2003 or 2023)

Inspired by the Disney ride, both versions are more family fun than freaky. Ghosts galore, but it’s all in good (undead) fun.

The Halloween Movie Night Setup

Movie night is more than just the movie. Here’s how to make it cozy and fun regardless of what’s on the screen.

• Snacks: Popcorn, obviously. Maybe mix in some candy corn if you’re feeling wild (yep, it’s available in stores at the beginning of August 🙌🏻). Bonus points for a themed charcuterie board too.
• Drinks: Hot apple cider, spiked or not (no judgment here). Or a warm chai latte if you’re like me and love anything and everything cinnamon-y.
• Vibes: Dim the lights, light some candles (anything with “pumpkin” in the name will do), and pull out the fluffy knit crochet blanket (you know the one).

One Last Thing…

You don’t have to love horror and gore to celebrate Halloween. Sometimes the best nights are the ones where you feel just a little spooked and a lot warm and safe (haha). So grab your favorite people (or your dog) and settle in for a movie night that won’t have you checking under the bed afterward.

What’s your go-to Halloween movie? Tell me in the comments—especially if it’s not scary. I’m always looking for more. 🖤