I don’t know about you, but I like to fill my fall season with all the scary, spooky, supernatural and fun-scary I can get my eyeballs on.
Sometimes I want to tremble on the edge of my seat, heart thumping and arm hairs standing on end. But I’m not always in the mood for a nightmare-inducing spine-tingler.
Other times, I want to curl up under a cozy blanket with a bucket of caramel corn and just chill. And still get my spooky fix.
Halloween season can be all about fun – and even relaxing – scary chills. Chilling out chills.
This isn’t a list of non-scary spooky shows. It’s not a list for kids. Some of these selections are genuinely scary, minus the heart-pounding anxiety. They just have an element, a coziness, that makes them fun, relaxing, and scary.
Don’t agree? Leave a comment and start a discussion. Also, let us know what chill, scary shows we missed.
Here are 14 movies and shows that are about those fun, chill Halloween vibes.
Hubie Halloween (2020)
Adam Sandler’s answer to Halloween fun, who can resist? This one is more comedy than horror, but the holiday vibes are on point. This movie makes me want to decorate, trick-or-treat, and stuff my face with candy corn.
Watch it on Netflix
Haunted Hotel (2025, 1 Season)
If you’re looking for an adult animation comedy filled with ghosts, demons, and murder, look no further. Fun, funny, and spooky, this series just makes me smile. Pair it with a steaming mug of cider and enjoy.
Season two is in the works, so keep an eye out.
Watch it on Netflix
The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror (1990-Present)
This series takes me back to my childhood, and they’re still making new ones! The nostalgia is strong with this one – reminiscent of the old animated Halloween specials I looked forward to as a kid. It tucks you right into the holiday spirit without making you wet your sheets.
For those unaware, each season of The Simpsons has one Treehouse of Horror episode – their Halloween special. Here you can find a list of each episode number. But also, fortunately, Disney+ has grouped them. Navigate to The Simpsons Collection, and you’ll find the full set.
Watch it on Disney or Hulu
Beetlejuice (1988)
It’s spooky, it’s funny, it’s gross. This movie will always be one of my Halloween faves. Flannel pajamas and tub of popcorn, here I come!
Watch it on Hulu
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)
I’m just gonna say it. The sequel is even better than the original. Complete with all the nostalgia and a modern twist, this movie brings all the cozy vibes and good times.
Watch it on HBOMax or Hulu
Castle Rock (2018-2019, 2 Seasons)
Disclosure: I’m not sure this series qualifies as Halloween fare. But it definitely qualifies as spooky and mysterious. The mind of Stephen King never disappoints. The mystery frightens and intrigues, while the seemingly sleepy coastal town can’t help but emanate chill vibes.
Watch it on Disney or Hulu or Netflix
Fear Street Film Series (2021-2025)
Anyone up for 90s slasher movie vibes? I’ll take four, please! These films are based on the R.L. Stine horror books of my youth. The nostalgia is off the charts with these. Grab your nearest Gen X friend, a $5 Little Caesar’s pizza, and some Jiffy Pop. These films are a time machine. But beware – these can be pretty scary.
Watch it on Netflix
Midnight Mass (2021, Limited Series)
I debated adding this series to my list of relaxing Halloween shows. It might be too intense. But there is something about the rolling ocean waves lapping up against the small island town that makes me want to curl up under some fleece and wrap my hands around a piping mug of cocoa. When the perfectly paced, frightful mystery unravels, sending shivers up your spine, just pop a couple of marshmallows into that bad boy and snuggle up. You won’t be disappointed.
Watch it on Netflix
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
It’s the idyllic cinematography and the unintentional ASMR for me. It’s not scary. It’s not so spooky or mysterious. It’s almost quaint. But it’s beautiful and lovely and settles you into the fall season the way a plump, orange pumpkin on the porch does.
Watch it on Disney
Sinners (2025)
Buckle up. This is a scary one, folks. But, I can’t help but add it to this list. The setting, the blues music, the voice of Miles Caton….it’s all so hypnotizing. And there’s just something about Michael B. Jordan that lets you know there’s nothing to worry about. You’ll need a hot whiskey drink with this one.
Watch it on HBOMax or Hulu
The Lost Boys (1987)
If there were ever a horror movie that had the 80s written all over it, it’s this one. Nostalgia really has a way of calming the mind and body. This movie reminds me of a time when I was small, and the teenagers around me seemed so old and dangerous. Scary, but in a good way.
Watch it on Prime
Interview with the Vampire (1994)
The storytelling aspect of this film is what makes it feel so cozy, even while tingling the nerves. There’s a humanness to it, even while it’s about being nonhuman. It’s just a darn good story! Serve with an old-world tea and a drizzle of thick honey.
Watch it on Hulu
The ‘Burbs (1989)
The comedy and terror aspects of this movie are perfectly balanced. It’s upbeat and awkward and hilarious and shocking! If I were planning an all-day Halloween movie marathon, I’d kick it off with this film and a big stack of pancakes.
Watch it on YouTube
The ‘Burbs (2026, 1 Season)
Do not sleep on this one! The mystery is pure fun and excitement, comedy and thrill. I can’t wait to rewatch it while passing out candy to trick-or-treaters.
Watch it on Peacock
I’ve written more about Beetlejuice. Try these:
Beetlejuice is the Most Gen X Movie Ever and Here’s Why
‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ Proves Gen X and Gen Z Are Kindred Spirits
67 of the Best ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ Quotes
Need to Relax? Try these:
Best Adult Animation for Relaxation and Sleep
ASMR YouTube Channels for Relaxation
If you’re Gen X, you’ve come to the right place! Stick around!