A Parent’s Guide to Non-Scary Halloween Movies

Family movie night suggestions for all ages; cozy and cute over creepy and chaotic.

Halloween doesn’t have to mean jump scares and nightmares. For many little ones (and let’s be honest, plenty of parents, too), the fun lies in the magic of costumes, pumpkins, and a touch of gentle spookiness, not the heart-racing kind. So, if your family prefers cozy over creepy, here’s your guide to Halloween movies that bring the seasonal spirit without the sleepless nights.

Pop the popcorn, dim the lights (but not too much), and snuggle up for a movie night that celebrates the lighter side of spooky season.


For Toddlers + Little Kids (Ages 2 - 6)

1. Room on the Broom
Based on the beloved Julia Donaldson book, this short film is full of warmth and whimsy. It’s a gentle story about friendship, kindness, and teamwork; with a very friendly witch.

2. Spookley the Square Pumpkin
A heartwarming tale about a little pumpkin who doesn’t fit in because of his shape. It’s a lovely way to start conversations about uniqueness and self-acceptance.

3. Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest
There’s a “legend” involved, but it’s more silly than scary. George’s curiosity leads to plenty of laughs and gentle Halloween fun.

4. Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie
Pure nostalgia and the perfect introduction to the idea of facing fears; all wrapped in classic Pooh-bear sweetness.


For Big Kids (Ages 7 - 10)

1. Hotel Transylvania (Series)
A fun and goofy take on classic monsters, packed with heart, humor, and zero actual scares. Great for multi-age families.

2. Casper
The friendliest ghost there ever was. Sweet, sentimental, and filled with just enough mystery to feel festive without frightening.

3. The Addams Family (Animated 2019 or 2021)
Macabre meets mischievous, but in a totally family-friendly way. The humor is clever enough for parents, too.

4. ParaNorman
Beautifully animated and layered with meaning; about empathy, bravery, and being misunderstood. Slightly darker themes but still very age-appropriate for older kids.


For Tweens + Teens (Ages 11+)

1. Hocus Pocus (and Hocus Pocus 2)
A Halloween classic. Witchy, witty, and filled with iconic moments. Best watched with a bowl of popcorn and a cozy blanket fort.

2. Monster House
A little spookier, but the story of courage and friendship makes it worth it. For kids who are ready for a small thrill without real horror.

3. Coraline
Visually stunning with deeper emotional layers; about bravery, family, and appreciating what you have. Perfect for older kids who love a touch of gothic fantasy.


Create your own annual “Not-So-Scary Movie Night.” Let your kids decorate the living room with fairy lights and mini pumpkins, serve a Halloween snack board (think orange slices, popcorn, and a few chocolate bats), and end the evening with a cozy bedtime story.

Because Halloween doesn’t have to be about the fright; it can be about connection, imagination, and memories made in the glow of the screen (and maybe a few pumpkin candles).