Halloween is a time for ghoulish fun, haunted houses, and of course, spooky movie marathons! For many of us, the most memorable Halloween movies are the ones we grew up watching, filled with magic, laughs and just a hint of scariness. Whether you’re looking to relive your childhood or introduce younger generations to the classics, here are some of our favourite nostalgic Halloween movies that have stood the test of time and hopefully won’t give you nightmares.
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
It’s not Halloween without the Sanderson Sisters! This iconic Disney classic has become a staple for the spooky season. The tale of three witches, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, who are accidentally resurrected in modern-day Salem, is packed with humor, charm, and just the right amount of spooky. The mix of magic and comedy makes it the perfect throwback movie for the whole family.
2. Beetlejuice (1988)
The OG Beetlejuice is the ultimate Halloween comedy-horror mashup. With its offbeat humor, quirky characters, and iconic performances, this movie is a nostalgic treat for anyone who grew up in the ’80s or ’90s. The visual style alone screams Halloween fun, making it an essential rewatch for the spooky season.
3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Is it a Halloween movie? A Christmas movie? IDK both I guess. The Nightmare Before Christmas has become a must-watch for fans of Halloween and Tim Burton's distinct storytelling. Jack Skellington’s adventure from Halloween Town to Christmas Town is magical, spooky, and heartwarming all at once. The stop-motion animation and iconic songs make it a true holiday gem.
4. Casper (1995)
For a family-friendly ghost story, Casper is the perfect nostalgic Halloween watch. This charming tale of a friendly ghost and his mischievous uncles combines humor and heart. With its blend of spooky antics and feel-good moments, Casper transports you back to a time when ghosts were more likely to make you laugh than scream.
5. Halloweentown (1998)
Disney Channel’s Halloweentown is a 90s classic that brings all the Halloween magic right to your screen. The movie follows Marnie, a young girl who discovers she comes from a family of witches, and her journey to the magical Halloweentown. The film’s mix of adventure, magic, and festive spirit has made it a beloved Halloween tradition for many families.
6. Ghostbusters (1984)
Who ya gonna call? Ghostbusters is one of the most iconic films of the 80s and remains a Halloween favorite. While it’s more of a supernatural comedy than a Halloween special, the ghostly hijinks, catchy theme song, and memorable one-liners make it a must-watch every October. The perfect blend of funny and freaky, Ghostbusters brings nostalgia and spooky fun to your Halloween viewing.
7. The Addams Family (1991)
The creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky Addams Family has been a Halloween icon for decades. The 1991 film adaptation brings the beloved characters to life with gothic humor, dark comedy, and tons of charm. Whether it’s Morticia’s deadpan grace or Christina Ricci’s iconic portrayal of Wednesday, The Addams Family is a nostalgic Halloween delight.
8. Ernest Scared Stupid (1991)
If you’re in the mood for a goofy Halloween adventure, Ernest Scared Stupid is an under-the-radar gem. The bumbling but lovable Ernest P. Worrell faces off against a troll terrorizing a small town on Halloween. With its campy humor and slapstick antics, this movie is pure 90s nostalgia that’s sure to bring on the laughs.
9. Practical Magic (1998)
For those who enjoy a mix of romance, magic, and a bit of spookiness, Practical Magic is the perfect nostalgic Halloween movie. Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, this film is about two witch sisters trying to navigate life, love, and a family curse. It’s whimsical, mysterious, and filled with cozy fall vibes, making it a great choice for a Halloween movie night.
10. The Witches (1990)
Roald Dahl’s The Witches brings childhood fears to life in this dark fantasy tale about witches who despise children. Angelica Huston’s portrayal of the Grand High Witch is truly iconic, making the film both thrilling and slightly terrifying for younger viewers. While the movie has some genuinely creepy moments, it’s a nostalgic Halloween classic that has held up over the years.
Halloween isn’t just about scares—it’s about the memories that come with these iconic films. Whether it’s the quirky charm of Hocus Pocus or the ghostly laughs of Ghostbusters, these nostalgic movies remind us of simpler times and fill the season with fun, adventure, and a hint of magic. So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and dive into a movie marathon that will transport you back to Halloween’s past!
