10 Halloween movies to watch this October

Halloweekend 2024 has arrived.

With Halloween just around the corner on Oct. 31, it's time to make the most of the remaining Halloween activities, such as pumpkin carving and listening to your favorite Halloween songs. Whether you're spending time with family or hitting up a bar crawl with friends, chances are you'll be watching a Halloween movie at some point this weekend. While there are many classic Halloween movies to choose from, we have compiled a list of the best ones to watch in celebration of the spooky holiday.

1. "Hocus Pocus" (1993)

This Halloween classic follows a teenager who resurrects three witches on Halloween night. With its mix of humor, magic, and memorable performances from Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, "Hocus Pocus" is a must-watch for fans of all ages.

2. "The Nightmare Before Christmas" (1993)

This Tim Burton classic tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. With its unique animation style, catchy songs, and whimsical story, "The Nightmare Before Christmas" is a perfect Halloween and Christmas movie rolled into one.

3. "Scream" (1996)

Wes Craven’s iconic slasher film "Scream" follows a group of high school students who are targeted by a masked killer known as Ghostface. Known for its clever twists, self-referential humor, and memorable killer, "Scream" is a modern Halloween classic that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

4. "Beetlejuice" (1988)

In Tim Burton’s "Beetlejuice," a recently deceased couple hires a mischievous ghost named Beetlejuice to help scare away the new owners of their house. With its offbeat humor, quirky characters, and unforgettable performance by Michael Keaton as the titular character, "Beetlejuice" is a fun and spooky Halloween watch.

5. "Halloween" (1978)

No list of Halloween movies would be complete without John Carpenter’s classic slasher film "Halloween." The film follows killer Michael Myers as he escapes from a mental institution and goes on a murderous rampage in his hometown. Known for its tension-packed atmosphere, chilling score, and iconic villain, "Halloween" is a must-watch for horror fans.

6. "The Addams Family" (1991)

Based on the beloved TV series, "The Addams Family" follows the quirky and macabre Addams family as they navigate life in modern suburbia. With its dark humor, eccentric characters, and witty dialogue, "The Addams Family" is a fun and atmospheric Halloween movie for the whole family.

7. "The Conjuring" (2013)

Based on the true story of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, "The Conjuring" follows the couple as they help a family plagued by a malevolent spirit in their new home. With its tense atmosphere, jump scares, and strong performances, "The Conjuring" is a modern horror classic that is perfect for a spooky Halloween night.

8. "Halloweentown" (1998)

In this Disney Channel original movie, a teenage girl discovers she comes from a family of witches and must save her hometown from an evil force. With its charming characters, magical setting, and heartwarming story, "Halloweentown" is a Halloween classic that will delight viewers of all ages.

9.  "Psycho" (1960)

Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic thriller "Psycho" follows a woman who checks into a secluded motel run by the mysterious Norman Bates. Known for its shocking twists, tense atmosphere, and unforgettable shower scene, "Psycho" is a suspenseful and chilling Halloween watch that has stood the test of time.

10. "Trick ‘r Treat" (2007)

This horror anthology film weaves together four interlocking stories set on Halloween night. With its clever storytelling, dark humor, and spooky atmosphere, "Trick ‘r Treat" is a hidden gem that has developed a cult following among horror fans.

Halloween is the perfect time to indulge in some spooky movies that will get you in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic slasher film, a family-friendly fantasy, or a supernatural thriller, there are plenty of Halloween movies to choose from. So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and enjoy these 10 Halloween movies that are worth watching this October.