The Ultimate Guide to Disney Plus Halloween Movies for Families

When Halloween rolls around, there’s nothing quite like settling in with the family to watch a spooky (but not too scary) movie. Disney Plus has several Halloween titles for families looking for Halloween-themed content, thanks to its wide selection of movies that cater to various age groups. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Disney Plus Halloween movies, making it easy for you to plan a frightfully fun movie night with the whole family.

This post contains affiliate links.  We may earn a small commission for items purchased.

Top Disney Plus Halloween Movies for Families

Here’s a list of must-watch Disney Plus Halloween movies that are perfect for family movie nights:

1. Hocus Pocus (1993)

Rating: PG
Why It’s Great: This cult classic has been a Halloween favorite for decades. Hocus Pocus follows the Sanderson sisters, three witches who are resurrected in modern-day Salem, Massachusetts. The movie is packed with humor, memorable characters, and a bit of spooky charm, making it an ideal choice for families with older kids.

Check out Hocus Pocus 2 as an alternative if your family has watched Hocus Pocus several times!

2. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Rating: PG
Why It’s Great: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is a unique blend of Halloween and Christmas, making it a versatile option for holiday viewing. The stop-motion animation, hauntingly beautiful music, and captivating story make it a timeless choice for family Halloween viewing. It’s perfect for kids who are a little older and ready for something with a bit of a dark edge.

3. Halloweentown (1998)

Rating: TV-PG
Why It’s Great: Halloweentown is a Disney Channel Original Movie that has become a Halloween tradition for many families. The story follows Marnie, a young girl who discovers she comes from a family of witches. Together with her grandmother, she must save the magical world of Halloweentown from evil forces. Halloweentown is fun, light-hearted, and perfect for younger kids.

4. Coco (2017)

Rating: PG
Why It’s Great: While Coco is not strictly a Halloween movie, its themes of family, tradition, and the celebration of the Day of the Dead make it a great pick for the season. The stunning animation and touching story make Coco a film that resonates with audiences of all ages. It’s a beautiful way to introduce kids to cultural traditions related to the afterlife.

5. Frankenweenie (2012)

Rating: PG
Why It’s Great: Another Tim Burton masterpiece, Frankenweenie is a heartwarming tale about a boy who brings his beloved dog back to life. The movie is a homage to classic horror films but told in a way that’s accessible and entertaining for children. The black-and-white animation adds to the spooky atmosphere without being too frightening.

6. Haunted Mansion (2003)

Rating: PG
Why It’s Great: Based on the popular Disney theme park ride, Haunted Mansion is a fun, family-friendly film that mixes humor with a little bit of fright. Starring Eddie Murphy, Haunted Mansion follows a family that gets trapped in a haunted house filled with ghosts and other supernatural beings. It’s a light, comedic film that’s perfect for families looking for something not too intense.

7. The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949)

Rating: G
Why It’s Great: This classic animated feature includes the story of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which is perfect for Halloween. The tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman is spooky enough to be thrilling, yet still suitable for younger viewers. Paired with the lighter tale of Mr. Toad, this movie is a great pick for families looking for a bit of nostalgia.

8. Zombies (2018)

Rating: TV-G
Why It’s Great: For families with tweens, Zombies offers a fun, musical twist on the typical zombie story. Set in a world where zombies and humans live side by side, the movie follows the story of a zombie and a human cheerleader who team up to bring their communities together. Zombies is upbeat, colorful, and has a positive message about acceptance.

9. Spooky Buddies (2011)

Rating: G
Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for something even the youngest kids can enjoy, Spooky Buddies is a perfect choice. This movie follows a group of puppies as they embark on a Halloween adventure. It’s light on scares and heavy on cute, making it an excellent option for preschoolers and early elementary-aged kids.

10. The Haunted Mansion (2023)

Rating: PG-13
Why It’s Great: The new Haunted Mansion movie offers a more modern take on the classic Disney attraction. With a mix of humor, scares, and heartfelt moments, this film is ideal for families with older kids who can handle a bit more intensity. The star-studded cast and impressive special effects make it a must-watch for Halloween.

Tips for a Perfect Disney Plus Halloween Movie Night

To make the most of your Disney Plus Halloween movie marathon, here are a few tips:

1. Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Set the mood by decorating your living room with Halloween-themed decorations. Dim the lights, light some candles (or use battery-operated ones for safety), and pile up some cozy blankets.

2. Prepare Themed Snacks

Whip up some Halloween-themed snacks to enjoy during the movie. Think pumpkin-shaped cookies, popcorn with candy corn sprinkled in, or even a DIY candy bar where everyone can make their own spooky treats.

3. Choose Age-Appropriate Movies

Make sure to pick movies that are suitable for the age range of your family. Younger kids might find some scenes in movies like Hocus Pocus or Haunted Mansion a bit too scary, so always consider the rating and content before hitting play.

4. Plan for Intermission Activities

If you’re planning a marathon, break it up with some fun intermission activities like a costume contest, a Halloween craft, or a quick round of Halloween trivia.

5. End with a Classic

Finish your movie night with a classic that everyone loves. Ending on a high note ensures everyone leaves with a smile, ready to dream of treats and not tricks.