Fall under spell of these magical, cozy Halloween movies

Halloween is all about the thrills and chills, but not everyone enjoys diving headfirst into a horror flick. For those who prefer to keep things light while still embracing the festive fun, here's a list of non-scary movies that will still deliver the perfect Halloween vibes.

"It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" (1966)

If you're looking for a dose of nostalgia, there's no better pick than this heartwarming classic. Charles Schulz's characters are a fitting ensemble for any holiday special, but almost none more than Halloween.

Released in 1966, "Great Pumpkin" sees Charlie Brown and the gang prepare for Halloween, all while Linus Van Pelt patiently waits for the arrival of the mythical and titular Great Pumpkin.

With its charming innocence and warm fall vibes, this short film is a comforting retreat into the simple life of the Peanuts characters, making it the perfect no-scare treat for the season. And who doesn't love Snoopy?

"Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (2005)

While it's not your typical Halloween movie, this timeless gem fits seamlessly into the spooky season, sweeping you into a world of candy and whimsical wonders.

As young Charlie Bucket (Freddie Highmore) embarks on a sugary-sweet adventure alongside four other lucky golden ticket winners, they enter the enchanting factory of the eccentric Willy Wonka (Johnny Depp).

With every turn, you're drawn deeper into a surreal, wacky, deliciously odd journey where nothing is as it seems. The mix of dazzling scenery and quirky characters makes it the perfect treat for a cozy night in, with the right touch of absurdity.

"Hubie Halloween" (2020)

In this lighthearted comedy, Adam Sandler plays Hubie Dubois, an endearing and overly cautious resident of Salem, Massachusetts, who takes his self-appointed role as the town's Halloween safety monitor a little too seriously.

Strange things begin to happen on Halloween night, and it's up to Hubie, armed with nothing but a thermos and a pure heart, to save the day.

With slapstick humor, goofy antics and a cast packed with familiar faces, this film captures the playful spirit of Halloween without a single jump scare in sight.

"Monsters, Inc." (2001)

If you're looking for a monster movie without the menace, "Monsters, Inc." delivers the perfect blend of heart and hilarity. Set in a world where monsters generate energy by scaring children, Mike Wazowski and James P. "Sulley" Sullivan — our lovable monster heroes — soon discover that laughter is far more powerful than fear.

While the concept of creepy creatures lurking under the bed may sound frightening, this film flips the idea on its head, making it a sweet, easygoing choice for Halloween.

"Hocus Pocus" (1993) and "Hocus Pocus 2" (2022)

No Halloween is complete without the iconic Sanderson sisters causing chaos in Salem. These wicked witches (played by Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler and Kathy Najimy) are accidentally freed and set on stirring up all sorts of magical mischief.

Filled with cackles, spells and an irresistible '90s charm, "Hocus Pocus" remains a must-watch. And if you just can't get enough of the coven, don't forget to watch the sequel, "Hocus Pocus 2."

The modern-day continuation, premiering 29 years after the original, sees three young women (Belissa Escobedo, Whitney Peak and Lilia Buckingham) accidentally resurrect the same child-hungry witches. They must then race to stop them from performing a forbidden spell that would make them all-powerful.

Whether you prefer the original iteration or a little extra modern magic, both films promise a bewitching story that will cast a spell on your Halloween night.

"Beetlejuice" (1988) and "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" (2024)

The demon you just can't seem to shake is back for more chaos this Halloween. "Beetlejuice" and its 2024 sequel are the dash of dark humor and unpredictability that bring the necessary thrills for Halloween.

In the 1988 original, when a recently deceased couple calls on the lunatic bio-exorcist, Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton), to rid their house of pesky living humans, the results are pleasantly bizarre.

Things spiral out of control in the most absurd ways, making it a must-watch for anyone wanting to explore the afterlife without the terror.

As for "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," the Deetz family is back after returning to their hometown following an unexpected loss. Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) is still contending with the mess Beetlejuice left behind, but it's her rebellious daughter, Astrid Deetz (Jenna Ortega), who stirs up fresh trouble.

When Beetlejuice is accidentally summoned, and Astrid uncovers a hidden portal to the afterlife, the mischievous demon reappears to wreak havoc just as he did in the original movie.

With his old tricks and new jokes, the sequel delivers even more wild antics, proving once again that Beetlejuice is timeless when it comes to causing mayhem.

"Halloweentown" (1998)

Step into the magical, pumpkin-filled streets of Halloweentown, where every day is Halloween and nothing is as it seems.

This Disney Channel original follows Marnie Piper (Kimberly Brown) as she discovers her witchy heritage and fights to save her town. It's a fun and festive flick that offers a playful essence of Halloween with spells, pumpkins and a whole lot of heart for those who prefer their Halloween adventures on the lighter side.

"Alice in Wonderland" (2010)

It's not a typical Halloween movie, but Tim Burton's version of this classic takes you on a journey through a curious world that's just as wacky and strange as anything you'd expect during the spooky season.

Follow Alice Kingsleigh (Mia Wasikowska) as she tumbles down the rabbit hole into a realm of quirky characters and peculiar happenings. Its madcap charm and slightly off-kilter energy fall perfectly into this time of year.

In fact, if you're looking for movies with a bit of a surreal twist, any Burton film is worth a watch during the season.

Whether it's the adorable story of "Frankenweenie," which he directed, or the stop-motion brilliance of "The Nightmare Before Christmas," which he produced and created, Burton's unique blend of eerie yet enchanting worlds fits right into the October mood. "The Nightmare Before Christmas" particularly portrays the best of both Halloween vibes and early holiday cheer, proving that you don't need real frights to celebrate the season.

Halloween only comes once a year, so make the most of it with a marathon that won't scare away all your friends.