The Best Family-Friendly Animated Halloween Movies
Step into a world of spooky delight with our curated list of the best animated Halloween movies for kids! From friendly ghosts to adventurous spirits, join iconic characters like Jack Skellington, explore the haunted Mansion, and embark on a spooky adventure in the hundred acre wood. Get ready for a bewitching movie marathon perfect for the whole family!
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Movie night is absolutely one of the highlights of my childhood memories and I have happily continued the family tradition with my own kids! There are certain movies for certain seasons and Halloween definitely has its own special list of movies in our house.
There are many “popular” titles that we skip in our house, but they may get an honorable mention further down in case you don’t mind the darker witchy type. We have really active imaginations in this house and I have a child who once had a nightmare of a waffle eating him. So, you can imagine scary movies are not hugely popular in this house!
Get your popcorn, red vines, and other favorite treats ready for the best holiday cinema and family traditions!
What would be better than a planned movie night with friends and family to spend your Halloween night? Nothing says movie night more than a few must-have snacks!
The Concession Stand
Animated Halloween Favorites:
These animated Halloween movies are filled with fun-filled adventure, iconic characters & not just your “typical” Halloween movie.
In our house, we tend to start watching the classic Halloween movies pretty much throughout the whole of October. But what a fun way to spend Halloween night as a family curled up on a couch laughing watching a Halloween movie marathon!
Disclosure: Though these are all rated “family-friendly” be aware that some of these movies have scary elements. Therefore, use your best discretion for age appropriateness.
01. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Hotel Transylvania” follows Count Dracula, who operates a resort for monsters to keep them safe from humans. On his daughter Mavis’ 118th birthday, a human named Jonathan stumbles upon the hotel, leading to hilarious chaos and a heartwarming tale of acceptance and friendship.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 31 min
Sequels: Hotel Transylvania 2, Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation & Hotel Transylvania 4: Transformania
Starring: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez, Kevin James, & David Spade
02. Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015)
In ‘Hotel Transylvania 2,’ Dracula becomes a doting grandfather as his half-human, half-vampire grandson, Dennis, shows no fangs. Dracula tries to bring out his inner monster while dealing with his quirky friends. The movie humorously explores family dynamics and the balance between human and monster worlds.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 29 min
Starring: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez, Kevin James, David Spade & Mel Brooks
03. Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation (2018)
Dracula and his monster friends embark on a cruise. Dracula finds romance with the ship’s captain, Ericka, who hides a secret. As hilarious chaos ensues, the monsters relax and discover surprises, leading to a thrilling adventure that tests love and unity.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 37 min
Starring: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez, Kevin James, Fran Drescher, Steve Buscemi, Molly Shannon, David Spade
03. Hotel Transylvania 4: Transformania (2021)
A mishap with a new invention switches Dracula and Johnny’s bodies, causing hilarious chaos. The gang embarks on a madcap journey to reverse the transformation, exploring fresh dynamics and embracing change. This installment brings laughter and heart as it explores acceptance and identity.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time:
Starring: Brian Hull, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez, Kevin James, Jim Gaffigan, & Kathryn Hahn
05. Coraline (2009)
A curious young Coraline discovers a hidden door that leads to an eerie parallel world. Initially enchanting, the alternate reality takes a sinister turn when her ‘Other’ parents try to keep her forever. A captivating blend of fantasy and horror, the film delves into bravery and appreciating what’s real.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 40 min
Starring: Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Saunders, Terri Hatcher, Ian McShane, & Keith David
06. The Willoughbys (2020)
Follow the eccentric Willoughby children, who decide to send their selfish parents on a dangerous vacation to reclaim their lives. Amid quirky adventures, the kids find a baby left on their doorstep, teaching them about responsibility and the true meaning of family. A delightful animation blending humor and heart.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 32 min
Starring: Maya Rudolph, Will Forte, Terry Crews, Ricky Gervais, & Martin Short
Available for streaming on Netflix only.
07. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
The Peanuts gang anticipates Halloween. Linus fervently believes in the Great Pumpkin, while Charlie Brown faces trick-or-treat mishaps and Snoopy engages in imaginative escapades. This heartwarming classic captures the essence of friendship, childhood, and the magic of the season.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 25 min
Starring: Bill Melendez, Peter Robbins, Sally Dryer, Kathy Steinberg, Christopher Shea
08. Monster House (2006)
DJ, Chowder, and Jenny suspect the creepy house across the street is alive and eating people. They embark on a daring mission to uncover its secrets and save their neighborhood. With a mix of scares and hearts, this animated adventure explores courage, friendship, and unexpected allies.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 31 min
Starring: Steve Buscemi, Mitchel Musso, Maggie Gyllenhaal, John Heder, Kevin James, & Jason Lee
09. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. Misadventures follow as Jack attempts to redefine Christmas, leading to a quirky tale of self-discovery, bridging two holidays, and celebrating uniqueness through Tim Burton’s signature dark charm.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 16 min
Starring: Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara, Chris Sarandon, & Paul Reubens
10. The Addams Family (2019)
The eccentric Addams family faces off against a reality TV host while preparing for a family reunion. Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, and Uncle Fester find themselves entangled in comical chaos as they navigate the challenges of fitting in with the ‘normal’ world. With spooky antics and heartwarming moments, they prove that embracing your unique self is truly a bewitching adventure.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 27 min
Sequels: The Addams Family 2 (2021)
Starring: Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloë Grace Moretz, & Bette Midler
11. Corpse Bride (2005)
Victor accidentally proposes to a deceased bride while rehearsing his vows. He’s whisked to the Land of the Dead, where he learns about life, love, and freedom. This enchanting stop-motion animation, directed by Tim Burton, weaves a unique love story with stunning visuals and a touch of macabre charm.
Rating: PG
Best For: 10+
Run Time: 1 hr 17 min
Starring: Helena Bonham Carter, Johnny Depp, Danny Elfman, & Emily Watson
12. Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween movie (2005)
The Hundred Acre Wood gang is excited about Halloween, but Roo is nervous about the Gobloon, a creature said to turn trick-or-treaters into jaggedy lanterns. This heartwarming film combines Halloween fun with themes of acceptance and camaraderie.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 17 min
13. Toy Story of Terror (2013)
Woody, Buzz, and their friends encounter spooky events in a roadside motel. When toys start disappearing, they must solve the mystery and rescue their friends. This short film brings humor, suspense, and the beloved Toy Story characters together in a Halloween-themed adventure.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 21 min
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Carl Weathers, Don Rickles, Wallace Shawn, & Kristen Schaal
14. Scared Shrekless (2010)
A Halloween special where Shrek challenges his friends to spend the night in a haunted castle. They tell spooky stories, resulting in hilarious antics. With its signature humor and characters, this short film offers a lighthearted and Shrek-themed twist on Halloween frights.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 21 min
Starring: Mike Meyers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, & John Hamm
15. Spookley the Square Pumpkin (2004)
A heartwarming animated tale about a square pumpkin who faces bullying from his round pumpkin peers. With the help of new friends, he learns that being different is a strength. This Halloween story promotes kindness, acceptance, and celebrating one’s uniqueness.
Rating: NR
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 45 min
16. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
An eccentric inventor Wallace and his loyal dog Gromit run a humane pest control service. When a giant rabbit threatens the town’s vegetable contest, chaos ensues. With humor and creativity, they tackle the beastly predicament, crafting a hilarious and heartwarming animated adventure.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 25 min
17. The Muppet’s Haunted Mansion (2021)
Gonzo spends a night at the spooky mansion to earn his bravery badge. The Muppets get entangled in ghostly shenanigans, meeting famous ghouls. This Halloween special blends Muppet humor, music, and Disney’s haunted attraction, delivering a delightful, spooky, and comedic adventure.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 18 min
Starring: Bill Barretta, Dave Goelz, Eric Jacobson, David Rudman, & Matt Vogel
Available to stream on Disney + only.
18. Coco (2017)
Young Miguel dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s ban on music. On Dia de los Muertos, he finds himself in the Land of the Dead, uncovering family secrets and pursuing his passion. A visually stunning journey celebrating music, culture, and the importance of remembering loved ones.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 45 min
Starring: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, & Benjamin Bratt
19. Monsters vs Aliens: Night of the Living Carrots (2011)
The fun takes a spooky twist as alien-vegetable hybrids turn into zombie carrots, wreaking havoc on Halloween night. Susan and her monster friends must save the day, mixing frights with laughter in this animated short.
Rating: PG
Best For: 7+
Run Time: 13 min
Starring: Reese Whitherspoon, Hugh Laurie, Seth Rogan, Will Arnett, Keifer Sutherland, James Horan, Diedrich Bader, & Rainn Wilson
20. The Secret of Nimh (1982)
Follow a timid mouse named Mrs. Brisby on a perilous quest to save her family’s home. Seeking aid from genetically enhanced rats, she uncovers their connection to a lab experiment. This animated tale weaves suspense, friendship, and courage into an enchanting story of hope and discovery.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 22 min
Starring: Elizabeth Hartman, Derek Jacobi, Dom DeLuise, Wil Wheaton, & Shannen Doherty
21. The Scariest Story Ever: A Mickey Mouse Halloween Spooktacular (1982)
A Mickey Mouse Halloween Spooktacular,” Mickey and his friends gather for a spooky campfire tale. But their imagination brings the story to life, as they face eerie challenges. Full of laughs and chills, it’s a delightful Disney treat that captures the Halloween spirit in true Mickey style.
Rating:
Run Time:
Starring:
Available to stream on Disney Plus only.
22. Casper* (1995)
Kind-hearted ghost Casper befriends Kat and her father. Amid humorous escapades, they uncover the mansion’s past, revealing Casper’s longing for a normal life. This family-friendly film combines spookiness with warmth, highlighting the importance of friendship, acceptance, and second chances.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 40 min
Starring: Christina Ricci, Devon Sawa, & Bill Pullman
*Partially animated.
23. ParaNorman (2012)
Young Norman has an extraordinary gift: he can communicate with ghosts. When his town faces a centuries-old curse, it’s up to him to save the day. Packed with humor, spooky twists, and messages of tolerance, the film celebrates uniqueness and bravery, offering a captivating stop-motion animated journey.
Rating: PG
Best For: 10+
Run Time: 1 hr 32 min
Starring: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, Elaine Stritch, Bernard Hill, & John Goodman
24. The Book of Life (2014)
Follows Manolo, a young man torn between fulfilling family expectations and following his heart’s desire. In a fantastical journey spanning both the Land of the Living and the Land of the Remembered. Filled with vibrant visuals and a celebration of Mexican culture, it’s a captivating animated tale of love, bravery, and embracing one’s individuality.
Rating: PG
Best For: 7+
Run Time: 1 hr 35 min
Starring: Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube, Christina Applegate, & Hector Elizondo
24. Scooby-Doo* (2002)
The Mystery Inc. gang reunites to solve a mystery at a haunted amusement park. Facing their old foes, they uncover a complex plot involving mind-altering monsters. This live-action/animated film blends humor, mystery, and nostalgia, offering an entertaining adventure for fans and older audiences.
Rating: PG-13
Best For: 13+
Run Time: 1 hr 26 min
Sequels: Scooby-Doo Monsters Unleashed (2004)
Starring: Sam Greco, Linda Cardellini, Matthew Lillard, Rowan Atkinson, Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, & Raja Gosnell
*Partially animated.
25. The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1950)
Two classic tales combined: “The Wind in the Willows” and Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Follow Mr. Toad and his wild escapades and then journey with Ichabod Crane as he encounters the mysterious Headless Horseman. This Disney package film offers timeless charm and Halloween chills.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 8 min
26. The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Halloween (2016)
the Cat in the Hat and his friends as they embark on a Halloween adventure to find a lost bat. Through whimsical and educational encounters with creatures, they learn about nocturnal animals and celebrate the joys of Halloween. This special offers fun and learning, making it an engaging choice for young viewers and families.
Rating: NR
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr
Starring: Martin Short
27. Frankenweenie (2012)
Young Victor brings his pet dog Sparky back to life through a science experiment. Chaos ensues as the town discovers Victor’s secret, leading to heartwarming and eerie moments. This Tim Burton stop-motion film explores the bond between a boy and his undead best friend in a quirky and visually captivating tale.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 27 min
Starring: Charlie Tahan, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, & Winona Ryder
28. Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest (2013)
Curious George and the Man with the Yellow Hat celebrate Halloween in the country. They encounter spooky legends, solve mysteries, and search for the mysterious “No Noggin.” Filled with festive fun and curious adventures, it’s a delightful Halloween treat for young viewers.
Rating: NR
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 58 min
29. Spookley the Square Pumpkin (2004)
Spookley, a unique square pumpkin, faces teasing from round pumpkins. He discovers his distinctive shape helps save the day when a storm threatens the pumpkin patch. This heartwarming tale promotes acceptance and courage, making it an engaging Halloween story for all ages.
Rating: NR
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 45 min
29. Scoob! (2020)
Reunited, the Mystery Inc. gang faces its most challenging case yet. The team must thwart the villainous plans of Dick Dastardly, who aims to unleash a supernatural catastrophe. Filled with humor, nostalgia, and animated adventure, the film offers a modern twist on the classic Scooby-Doo mysteries.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 34 min
30. James and the Giant Peach (1996)
the young orphan James as he escapes his difficult life by discovering a magical giant peach. Inside the peach, he meets a group of talking insects, and together they embark on a fantastical adventure across the ocean. This mix of live-action and stop-motion animation offers a visually stunning and heartwarming adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved tale.
Rating: PG
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 19 min
31. Mickey’s House of Villains (2001)
Disney’s iconic villains take over the House of Mouse Club on Halloween. Led by Jafar, they cause chaos until Mickey and his friends fight back. Filled with classic characters and villainous antics, it’s a spooktacular animated crossover that celebrates the darker side of Disney magic.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 8 min
32. Boxtrolls (2014)
A stop-motion animated film about Eggs, a young boy raised by underground-dwelling creatures known as Boxtrolls. When the town’s villain targets them, Eggs must venture into the human world to save his unusual family. With unique visuals and themes of acceptance, it’s a charming and imaginative tale.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 36 min
Starring: Isaac Hempstead, Elle Fanning, Ben Kingsley, Tracy Morgan, & Toni Collette
33. Scooby Doo & the Goblin King (2008)
The Mystery Inc. gang confronts the Goblin King, who wants to turn Halloween into a permanent night of frights. With Scooby-Doo’s courage, they embark on a whimsical and spooky adventure, solving mysteries and saving the holiday. This animated film combines humor and Halloween chills.
Rating: NR
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 15 min
34. Spirited Away (2001)
Young Chihiro is trapped in a mysterious world of spirits after her parents transform into pigs. To save them and herself, she navigates a surreal bathhouse run by a witch. This Studio Ghibli masterpiece is a visually captivating journey of courage, growth, and enchantment.
Rating: PG
Best For: 10+
Run Time: 2 hr 5 min
35. Monster’s Inc. (2001)
Lovable monsters Sully and Mike work at a factory where they scare children to power their city. When a little girl enters their world, they must protect her and find a way to generate energy without fear. This Pixar gem blends humor, heart, and imagination in a captivating animated adventure.
Rating: G
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 32 min
Sequels: Monsters University (2013)
Starring: John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Mary Gibbs, Steve Buscemi, James Coburn, & John Ratzenberger
36. The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)
The Grace siblings discover a hidden world of magical creatures after moving to a rundown estate. They uncover an ancient book that unveils both wondrous and dangerous secrets. This fantasy adventure weaves family bonds and mythical beings in an enchanting and perilous tale.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 35 min
Starring: Mark Waters, Freddie Highmore, Martin Short, Nick Nolte, Joan Plowright, David Strathairn, Sarah Bolger, & Mary-Louise Parker
37. Scooby Doo Monsters Unleashed (2004)
The Mystery Inc. gang must unravel a new mystery when masked villains from past cases come to life and wreak havoc on Coolsville. As they investigate, they discover a plot to unleash a horde of monsters upon the city. This family-friendly film combines comedy, mystery, and adventure, featuring the beloved Scooby-Doo and his friends.
Rating: PG
Best For: 7+
Run Time: 1 hr 33 min
Starring: Matthew Lillard, Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, & Linda Cardellini
*Partially animated.
38. Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island (1998)
The Mystery Inc. gang goes to a remote island for a reality TV show. They uncover real supernatural mysteries involving cat creatures and zombies. With a darker and more mature tone, this animated film reimagines the classic sleuths in a spooky and captivating adventure.
Rating: NR
Best For: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr 17 min
39. The Black Cauldron (1985)
Taran, a young pig-keeper, is on a quest to prevent the villainous Horned King from using a powerful cauldron to conquer the world. Based on Lloyd Alexander’s book series, this animated film delves into fantasy, bravery, and self-discovery, while venturing into darker themes uncommon in Disney animations.
Rating: PG
Best For: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 20 min
Starring: Clarence Nash, Doug Lefler, June Foray, & Ted Berman
40. Igor (2008)
The hunchbacked lab assistant Igor aspires to be a mad scientist. When his experiment goes awry, he creates a smart but benevolent monster. This animated comedy explores themes of identity, friendship, and embracing one’s true potential in a whimsical and madcap world.
Rating: PG
Best for: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr 27 min
Starring: John Cusack, John Cleese, Steve Buscemi, & Molly Shannon
41. Monsters Vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space (2009)
A Halloween-themed TV special. The monsters face an invasion of mutant pumpkins controlled by aliens. They must use their unique abilities to save Earth and stop the spooky chaos. This animated adventure combines humor, monsters, and seasonal fun for a spooktacular treat.
Rating: PG
Best For: 7+
Run Time: 30 min
Starring: Reese Whitherspoon, Hugh Laurie, Seth Rogan, Keifer Sutherland & Will Arnett
42. The Dark Crystal (1982)
An epic fantasy adventure directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, set in the alien world of Thra. The story follows a young Gelfling named Jen on a quest to heal the Dark Crystal and restore balance to the land by defeating the tyrannical Skeksis. With groundbreaking puppetry and a richly imagined world, it’s a classic tale of heroism, magic, and destiny.
Rating: PG
Ages Suitable: 8+
Run Time: 1 hr. 33 min.
Starring: John Baddeley, Stephen Garlick, David Buck, Barry Dennen
43. Monsters Vs Aliens (2009)
Susan transforms into a giant after being hit by a meteor on her wedding day. She joins a team of fellow monsters with unique abilities to battle an alien invasion led by Gallaxhar. This animated comedy combines humor, action, and teamwork in a quirky clash of monsters and extraterrestrials.
Rating: PG
Ages Suitable: All
Run Time: 1 hr. 34 min.
Starring: John Baddeley, Stephen Garlick, David Buck, Barry Dennen
44. 9 (2009)
A post-apocalyptic world is inhabited by sentient ragdoll-like creatures, each containing a fragment of a human soul. This dark and visually stunning animated film explores survival, identity, and the courage to challenge a world dominated by machines.
Rating: PG-13
Best for Ages: 12+
Run Time: 1 hr 19 min
45. Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the Wolfman (2000)
The Chipmunks and Chipettes suspect their neighbor Mr. Talbot is a werewolf. As they investigate, they discover he’s indeed a werewolf and has bitten their friend Theodore. This animated film blends humor, friendship, and Halloween spookiness, creating an entertaining adventure for viewers of all ages.
Rating: NR
Best for: All Ages
Run Time: 1 hr. 17 min.
46. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)
A young boy named Kubo embarks on a quest to find a magical suit of armor that once belonged to his late samurai father. Set in a mesmerizing world inspired by Japanese folklore, the film explores themes of family, destiny, and the power of storytelling through breathtaking animation and emotional storytelling.
Rating: PG
Best for Ages: 10+
Run Time: 1 hr. 41 min.
If you’re looking for more Halloween classics featuring more mature and adult-friendly entertainment I have you covered with these 41+ of the Best Classic Halloween Movies for October.
In Conclusion
Meet the Author
Hi, I’m Julie! Mother to five beautiful kids, Homeschool Educator, Writer, Handicraft & DIY Enthusiast, Photographer, Thrifter, and Furniture Restorer. Follow along for fun DIY projects creating a handmade home on a budget! Read more about me here→
