As the countdown to October 31st ticks away, the anticipation for the spookiest night of the year is palpable. Whether you're planning a cozy family movie night or a thrilling bar crawl with friends, no Halloweekend is complete without indulging in some classic Halloween films. From the iconic slasher flicks to the nostalgic family-friendly favorites, we've curated a comprehensive list of must-see movies to make your All Hallows' Eve celebrations truly unforgettable.

Unleash the Spooky Spirit with These Hauntingly Good Halloween Movies

Unleash the Chills with the Legendary Michael Myers

Before the likes of Jason Voorhees and Freddy Krueger terrorized the silver screen, there was Michael Myers – the quintessential masked serial killer who has become synonymous with the Halloween franchise. In the original 1978 horror classic, audiences were introduced to the deranged Myers, who escapes from a psychiatric hospital to exact his twisted revenge on the unsuspecting town of Haddonfield, Illinois. This seminal slasher film spawned a staggering 12 sequels, cementing its status as a Halloween staple that continues to captivate audiences over four decades later.

Embrace the Nostalgia with the Peanuts Gang

No Halloween movie marathon is complete without the timeless classic, "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown." This beloved 1966 animated feature, based on the iconic Peanuts comic strip by Charles M. Schulz, offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and charm. As Charlie Brown and his friends eagerly await the arrival of the mythical Great Pumpkin, viewers are treated to a heartwarming and whimsical exploration of the spirit of the holiday. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this TV special is a must-watch for anyone looking to recapture the magic of Halloween.

Conjure Up Some Witchy Mischief with the Sanderson Sisters

For those seeking a spooky yet comedic twist on the Halloween genre, "Hocus Pocus" is the perfect choice. Starring the dynamic trio of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the mischievous Sanderson sisters, this 1993 Disney classic follows the trio of resurrected witches as they wreak havoc in the town of Salem, Massachusetts. With its perfect balance of humor, horror, and enchantment, "Hocus Pocus" has become a beloved Halloween staple, captivating audiences of all ages with its diabolical charm.

Embrace the Quirky and Macabre with Beetlejuice

When it comes to the supernatural comedy classic "Beetlejuice," fans are spoiled for choice. The original 1988 film, directed by the visionary Tim Burton, introduced audiences to the demonic and hilarious spirit of Beetlejuice, played to perfection by Michael Keaton. With its quirky characters, stunning visuals, and delightfully dark humor, the film has become a Halloween favorite. And the excitement doesn't end there – in 2024, Burton is set to release a highly anticipated sequel, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," promising even more mischievous mayhem for fans to enjoy.

Venture into the Spooky and Whimsical World of The Nightmare Before Christmas

The debate over whether "The Nightmare Before Christmas" is a Halloween or Christmas movie continues to rage on, but one thing is certain: this 1993 Tim Burton-produced animated masterpiece is a must-watch for the holiday season. With its captivating visuals, memorable characters, and the iconic song "This is Halloween," the film seamlessly blends the spooky and the whimsical, creating a timeless fantasy that appeals to audiences of all ages. Whether you're in the mood for a Halloween treat or a Christmas delight, "The Nightmare Before Christmas" is a cinematic experience that will enchant you.

Embrace the Macabre Charm of The Addams Family

Originally a beloved TV sitcom from the 1960s, "The Addams Family" made a successful transition to the big screen in 1991, captivating audiences with its delightfully dark and eccentric characters. Starring Raul Julia, Anjelica Huston, Christopher Lloyd, and Christina Ricci, this classic film offers a perfect blend of tongue-in-cheek comedy and spooky special effects, making it a must-watch for both adults and older children looking to indulge in some Halloween-themed entertainment.

Discover the Magic of Halloweentown

While "Halloweentown" may be a Disney kids' movie, its charm and appeal extend far beyond the younger demographic. Starring the legendary Debbie Reynolds as Aggie Cromwell, a seemingly meddling grandmother with a secret mission to save the enchanted town of Halloweentown from a malevolent sorcerer, this 1998 film is a clever and entertaining exploration of the supernatural. With its engaging storyline and memorable characters, "Halloweentown" is a Halloween treat that the whole family can enjoy.

Bust Some Ghosts with the Ghostbusters

When the invisible man is lurking in your bed, who you gonna call? The Ghostbusters, of course! This iconic 1984 comedy classic features Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson as a team of ghost-chasing detectives who must save New York City from complete paranormal destruction. While the film is primarily a hilarious romp, it also boasts plenty of jump-scares and the enduring theme song by Ray Parker Jr., making it a Halloween must-watch for fans of both comedy and horror.

Uncover the Bewitching Secrets of the Owens Sisters

In the 1998 supernatural romantic drama "Practical Magic," Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman shine as Sally and Gillian Owens, a pair of sister witches who must contend with a generational curse that dooms any man they fall in love with. As they navigate the complexities of their magical abilities and the consequences of their actions, the film offers a captivating blend of romance, drama, and the supernatural, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a Halloween movie with a touch of enchantment.

Unravel the Masked Killer's Identity in Scream

For those in the mood for a Halloween horror movie that keeps you guessing, "Scream" is the perfect choice. Released in 1996 and starring Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox, this whodunnit slasher film blends scares and comedy, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats as they try to uncover the identity of the masked serial killer, Ghostface. With five sequels already under its belt and a sixth installment on the way in 2026, the "Scream" franchise has cemented its status as a Halloween classic, ensuring that the Ghostface mask remains a popular costume choice for years to come.