Skip the Scares: A 10-Movie Guide to a Cozy, Magical Halloween

Opting out of the horror movie marathon this Halloween? We don’t blame you. Sometimes, the holiday calls for something lighter, warmer, and just a bit more magical. If you’re ready to trade jump scares for charming witches and friendly ghosts, you’re in the right place.
This list is designed for a cozy night in, perfect for watching with kids, friends, or just yourself and a warm blanket. Here are 10 non-scary movies to stream tonight.
Let’s start with the king of 90s Halloween: Hocus Pocus (1993). Bette Midler and Sarah Jessica Parker are enchanting as resurrected witches causing delightful chaos in Salem. It never goes out of style.
For a different kind of magic, Hotel Transylvania (2012) is a family-night winner. This animated feature about Dracula’s resort is packed with laughs and touching father-daughter moments.
If you like your Halloween kooky and charming, The Addams Family (1991) is a must. It’s the perfect time to get back to the roots of the oddball clan, especially if you’re missing the magic of the original.
Why not get a head start on Christmas with Home Alone (1990)? It’s not a horror film, but Kevin McCallister’s battles with burglars are thrilling and hilarious, making it a perfect watch for any season.
For a story with real heart, Casper (1995) is a beautiful choice. This tale of friendship and acceptance proves that a ghost story can be incredibly heartwarming (and maybe make you cry).
This recommendation is for the “girly pops”: The Twilight Saga (2008). Cozy up with Edward Cullen and his vampire tribe for a nostalgic Halloween night in, whether you’re alone or with a partner.
If you have teens in the house, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules (2011) is a surprisingly good pick for a cold night. It’s not spooky, but Rodrick Heffely provides plenty of laughs for a family watch.
For Tim Burton’s signature dark-but-fun style, turn to Beetlejuice (1998). Michael Keaton’s performance as the eccentric ghost, set in Burton’s surreal world, is the perfect mix of macabre and hilarious.
Another Tim Burton classic, Coraline (2009), is a visual masterpiece. While darker in tone, this stop-motion, eerie fairy tale is a family-friendly celebration of bravery.
Finally, for the millennials and Gen X, Goosebumps (2015) is a nostalgic dive into the R.L. Stine series that was a core memory for so many teenagers.