Top 10 spooktober movies for families 2025

Spooktober Movies for Families 2025

Is your family’s Spooktober movie list stuck in a ghostly time loop? You know the one—rewatching the same three classics every single October while a whole world of new, fun, and perfectly spooky films waits just off-screen? If you’re ready to mix in some fresh magic with your nostalgic favorites, you’re in the right place!

Welcome to your ultimate guide for Spooktober 2025! We’ve scoured the pumpkin patches, consulted the friendly neighborhood ghosts, and even asked the talking black cats to bring you a hand-picked list of the 10 best family-friendly Halloween movies for this year. Whether you have little ghouls who scare easy or brave tweens ready for a few chills, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your cozy blankets, a big bowl of candy corn (or popcorn!), and let’s dive into the perfect movie lineup for your haunted holiday season.

What Exactly is Spooktober?

Before we get to the movies, let’s talk about the star of the show: Spooktober! It’s a playful blend of “spooky” and “October,” and it’s become the go-to term for celebrating the entire month of Halloween fun . Think of it as a 31-day festival of costumes, pumpkins, and, of course, movies that are just scary enough to be exciting but not so scary that you need to sleep with the lights on. It’s all about that perfect balance of thrills and giggles for the whole family.

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It’s the perfect companion for your next movie night — simple, fun, and totally kid-approved!
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The Addams Family & wednesday : perfect shows for spooktober nights

The original Addams Family animated movie from 2019 is a “funny and spooky primer to Halloween that not only brings back old fans of the iconic family, but also introduces a new generation” to their delightfully macabre world . With its gothic aesthetic, quirky characters, and lighthearted take on the “creepy and kooky,” it’s an ideal Spooktober starter film for younger viewers and nostalgic parents alike.

For families with older kids or teens, Wednesday (the Netflix series) adds a modern, mystery-driven twist to the Addams legacy. While it leans into thriller territory with supernatural elements and a moody tone, it’s still rooted in the same eccentric, macabre humor that defines the family. According to recent updates, new content from the Wednesday universe is still rolling out in 2025, with parts of the series released as recently as September 2025 .

And don’t forget classics like Addams Family Values, which remains a fan favorite for its sharp wit and heartfelt (yet hilariously dark) storytelling—often highlighted on lists of top family-friendly Halloween films for its “spooky, kooky, and full of dark humour” vibe .

So whether you’re in the mood for animated antics with Gomez and Morticia or a brooding, detective-driven adventure with Wednesday Addams, these shows and films bring the perfect Spooktober energy to your living room—spooky enough to feel festive, but never too scary to enjoy together.

Our Picks for the Top 10 Spooktober Movies for Families in 2025

We’ve chosen these films based on their fun factor, age-appropriateness, and their ability to capture the true spirit of the season. Here’s our spooktacular list!

1. KPop Demon Hunters (2025)

Kick off your Spooktober with something brand new! This 2025 release is already a hit for families, blending catchy music, vibrant animation, and a lighthearted demon-hunting adventure that’s more fun than frightening . It’s a perfect example of how modern Halloween movies can be fresh, inclusive, and full of energy.

2. Hocus Pocus (1993)

No Spooktober list is complete without the Sanderson sisters! This timeless classic is a must-watch for its hilarious witches, catchy songs, and a story that’s become a beloved part of Halloween tradition for a reason . It’s spooky, silly, and endlessly rewatchable.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Is it a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? Why not both! Tim Burton’s masterpiece is a visual feast with a story that’s equal parts eerie and endearing. Its unique stop-motion animation and memorable characters make it a cornerstone of any family’s October movie night .

4. Monster House (2006)

This animated gem is a great choice for slightly older kids. It’s got a clever story about a house that’s literally alive and out for blood, but it’s wrapped in enough humor and heart to keep it from being too intense . It’s a fantastic pick for a thrilling but not terrifying experience.

5. Coraline (2009)

Another stop-motion masterpiece from the mind of Neil Gaiman, Coraline is a beautifully creepy tale about a girl who discovers a secret door to a world that’s a little too perfect. It’s a bit more intense than other picks, so it’s best for families with kids aged 8 and up, but its message about appreciating what you have is timeless .

6. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! (1966)

For a dose of pure, nostalgic charm, you can’t beat this classic special. It’s short, sweet, and captures the simple joys and disappointments of childhood Halloween nights. It’s the perfect movie to watch while carving pumpkins or waiting for trick-or-treaters .

7. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)

The long-awaited sequel to the 1988 classic is a fantastic addition to your 2025 Spooktober lineup. It brings back the chaotic energy of the original with a modern twist, making it a great bridge between parents’ childhood favorites and their kids’ new discoveries .

8. ParaNorman (2012)

This clever and funny film follows a boy who can see and speak to the dead. When his town is threatened by a centuries-old curse, it’s up to him to save the day. It’s a great story about acceptance and bravery, with plenty of spooky fun along the way .

9. Frankenweenie (2012)

Another Tim Burton classic, this black-and-white love letter to classic monster movies tells the story of a boy who brings his beloved dog back to life. It’s a touching, funny, and visually stunning film that celebrates the power of love and science .

10. A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting (2020)

This Netflix favorite is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that’s perfect for a fun movie night. It’s got secret societies, quirky monsters, and a brave babysitter who’s way more than she seems. It’s a great choice for families looking for something with a bit more action .

Tips for the Perfect Spooktober Movie Night

Now that you have your list, here are a few tips to make your movie night extra special:

Create a Cozy Fort: Build a blanket fort in the living room for an instant, immersive theater.
Themed Snacks: Serve “witches’ brew” (green punch), “eyeball” grapes, or “mummy” hot dogs.
Costume Party: Encourage everyone to wear their Halloween PJs or favorite costumes.
Talk About It: After the movie, chat about your favorite parts, the scariest moments, and what you’d do in the characters’ shoes.

FAQs About Spooktober

What is Spooktober?
Spooktober is a fun, informal term for the month of October, celebrating all things Halloween. It’s a time for spooky decorations, costumes, candy, and of course, watching Halloween-themed movies with your family .

Are these movies really not scary for kids?
We’ve chosen films that are widely considered family-friendly. However, every child is different! We recommend watching a trailer or reading a quick plot summary first if you have a very sensitive child. Movies like Coraline and Monster House have more intense moments than Charlie Brown or Hocus Pocus.

Can I watch these movies outside of October?
Absolutely! While they’re perfect for Spooktober, these films are great for a fun family movie night any time of the year. The themes of friendship, bravery, and imagination are always in season.

Where can I find these movies?
Many of these classics are available on major streaming services like Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu. Newer releases like KPop Demon Hunters are likely to be on platforms like Netflix or in theaters.

This Spooktober, you’re all set for a month of magical movie memories. So press play, enjoy the show, and have a wonderfully spooky season!