Halloween doesn’t always have to mean sugar rushes and spooky scares. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is with a blanket, some popcorn, and a stack of stories that bring just the right amount of goosebumps. Whether you’re curling up after trick-or-treating or staying in for a cozy family night, here are some frightfully fun books and movies that kids will love—scary enough to be exciting, but not so scary that anyone ends up hiding under the bed.
Books to Read by Flashlight
Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson
This rhyming classic is about a kind witch who makes room on her broom for animal friends—until a dragon shows up! It’s sweet, silly, and perfect for younger kids who want a friendly Halloween read.
The Witches by Roald Dahl
For older kids who like a little more shiver, this tale of real witches (who disguise themselves as ordinary women!) is creepy but hilarious. Dahl’s imagination makes it both mischievous and magical.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark collected by Alvin Schwartz
Okay, these are the ones to read with a flashlight under the blanket. They’re short, spooky folktales with illustrations that are legendary. Best for brave readers who like a good chill!
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
A modern classic about a girl who finds a hidden door to a parallel world. At first, it seems amazing—but her “other mother” has creepy button eyes and sinister plans. Slightly scary, but full of adventure.
Movies for a Cozy Halloween Night
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
The ultimate Halloween comfort watch. Laugh with Charlie Brown and Linus as they wait (and wait) for the mysterious Great Pumpkin. This one never gets old, no matter how many times you’ve seen it.
Halloweentown (Disney Channel Original Movie)
This nostalgic favorite is about kids who discover their grandmother is a witch—and that there’s a whole magical town full of creatures waiting for them. Fun, goofy, and very 90s in the best way.
Hotel Transylvania
Count Dracula runs a hotel for monsters, but things get tricky when a human stumbles in. Bright, funny, and full of monster jokes, it’s perfect for the whole family.
Casper
A friendly ghost, a haunted mansion, and plenty of laughs (and maybe a tear or two). This one’s great for kids who want a ghost story that’s more sweet than spooky.
The Addams Family (animated or live-action)
Whichever version you choose, the Addamses are creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky—yet somehow also the most lovable family around. Expect laughs and lots of “snap snap.”
Tips for the Ultimate Cozy Night In
- Build a blanket fort to make the living room extra spooky.
- Make monster snacks like popcorn “ghost hands” (plastic gloves filled with popcorn and candy corn “nails”).
- Read by flashlight or watch movies by candlelight (the safe battery kind).
- Vote on a favorite—everyone gets to pick their top book or movie of the night.
Halloween night is about more than costumes and candy—it’s about making memories. Whether you’re reading about witches and dragons or laughing at Dracula’s hotel antics, these books and movies make the perfect end to a frightfully fun day. So, grab your blanket, pop some popcorn, and let the cozy spooky vibes begin.
