11 Classic Halloween Specials That Still Air Every Fall

Halloween is the perfect time to revisit your favorite spooky specials, and there are plenty of beloved classics that air every year. From heartwarming tales of pumpkins and ghosts to mischievous adventures with iconic characters, these timeless TV specials bring the spirit of Halloween to life. Whether you’re looking for a bit of humor, some thrills, or a cozy, nostalgic vibe, these specials have something for everyone to enjoy this season.

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It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

This classic special first aired in 1966 and has remained a staple of Halloween television ever since. Based on the Peanuts comic strip by Charles Schulz, it features Charlie Brown and his friends as they prepare for Halloween. The story revolves around Linus, who waits for the mythical Great Pumpkin to appear in the pumpkin patch, while the rest of the characters go trick-or-treating. The charm of this special lies in its relatable themes of hope and disappointment, paired with the timeless Peanuts humor.

What makes “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” stand out is its mix of sweetness and melancholy. It’s a reflection on the innocence of childhood and the importance of keeping faith, even when things don’t go as planned. Its gentle pace and the iconic music score by Vince Guaraldi have made it a Halloween tradition that still resonates with audiences of all ages.

Toy Story of Terror!

Premiering in 2013, Toy Story of Terror! has quickly become a modern Halloween classic. In this short film, Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the toy gang find themselves trapped in a spooky motel after their car breaks down. As they try to figure out what’s going on, they discover eerie secrets about the hotel, leading to a thrilling adventure full of suspense and surprises. The combination of mystery and comedy, with the lovable Toy Story characters, makes it appealing to a wide audience, from children to adults.

What makes Toy Story of Terror! such a beloved Halloween special is its perfect balance between lighthearted humor and the thrilling atmosphere of Halloween. While there’s no shortage of spooky moments, the film never veers into too frightening territory, making it ideal for family viewing. It’s a great way for kids to experience the excitement of Halloween in a friendly, safe environment. The special also benefits from its connection to the iconic Toy Story franchise, ensuring it resonates with fans who have grown up with the characters. The colorful animation and clever writing keep it fresh every time it airs, making it a Halloween tradition that viewers look forward to year after year.

Halloween Is Grinch Night

This 1977 special brings Dr. Seuss’s beloved Grinch back to life in a Halloween setting. Unlike the Christmas Grinch, this version is much darker and more menacing, as he tries to ruin Halloween in Whoville. The special follows the character of Euchariah as he tries to stop the Grinch’s evil plan. With eerie visuals and an atmospheric score, “Halloween Is Grinch Night” brings a different kind of Halloween magic to the screen.

What sets this special apart is the tone, which blends the whimsical nature of Dr. Seuss with the spooky vibes of Halloween. While it retains the charm of the original Grinch character, it takes on a more mysterious and even slightly frightening edge, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spookiness with their holiday fun. It’s a unique Halloween special that offers a mix of adventure and eerie excitement.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Aired in 1949 as part of the Disney animated anthology series, this classic special is based on Washington Irving’s short story of the same name. It tells the story of Ichabod Crane, a schoolteacher in the town of Sleepy Hollow, and his encounter with the terrifying ghostly figure, the Headless Horseman. The animation style is beautifully nostalgic, and the special is both spooky and entertaining for viewers.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow has stood the test of time due to its atmospheric setting and the memorable image of the Headless Horseman riding through the night. The music and voice acting, particularly that of Bing Crosby as the narrator, help bring the story to life in a way that makes it a Halloween tradition for many families. The eerie yet whimsical story provides the perfect balance of thrills and lightheartedness.

The Worst Witch

This 1986 British television special is a cult favorite, based on the book by Jill Murphy. It follows Mildred Hubble, a young witch-in-training at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches, who faces challenges while trying to live up to the school’s high expectations. Despite her clumsy nature, Mildred eventually saves the day and proves herself to be a worthy witch. The special’s quirky charm and lovable characters make it a timeless classic.

The special is memorable for its unique blend of magical adventure and humor, creating an engaging storyline that appeals to children. Its lasting popularity comes from its relatable themes of overcoming adversity and finding confidence in oneself. The gothic setting and delightful witchy antics are perfect for any Halloween viewing party.

The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (Disney’s Halloween Hour)

Disney’s The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad is another classic that continues to air every Halloween. This 1949 animated film consists of two segments: the whimsical Wind in the Willows, featuring Mr. Toad, and the eerie The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which tells the story of Ichabod Crane and his fateful encounter with the Headless Horseman. While The Wind in the Willows brings light-hearted adventure, it is the Sleepy Hollow segment that leaves a lasting Halloween impression. The chilling ride of the Headless Horseman through the dark woods is a scene that has become synonymous with Halloween itself.

The special remains an annual tradition due to its beautiful animation, memorable voice acting by Bing Crosby, and its hauntingly atmospheric score. The Headless Horseman’s iconic chase through Sleepy Hollow still sends shivers down the spine of audiences, making it an essential Halloween watch. The timeless appeal of Disney’s animation, combined with the classic storytelling of Washington Irving, ensures that The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad remains a must-see every fall. Whether for its nostalgic value or its spooky charm, it continues to captivate viewers of all ages, offering a perfect blend of Halloween thrills and Disney magic.

Hocus Pocus

First released in 1993, “Hocus Pocus” has since become a Halloween favorite. The story follows three witches, Winifred, Sarah, and Mary, who are resurrected after being executed centuries ago. As they wreak havoc on the modern-day town of Salem, the film mixes lighthearted comedy with a touch of spooky mischief. The film’s memorable performances by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy have made it an enduring classic.

“Hocus Pocus” has garnered a loyal following due to its mix of humor, witchcraft, and Halloween spirit. The witty one-liners, coupled with the witches’ eccentric personalities, have made this movie a must-watch every October. It’s perfect for those looking for a fun Halloween movie with a nostalgic feel.

The Halloween Tree

This 1993 animated special is based on the novel by Ray Bradbury. It tells the story of a group of children who must journey into the unknown to save their friend, who has mysteriously vanished. Along the way, they explore the different aspects of Halloween traditions and the ancient history of the holiday. The spooky, yet heartfelt, storyline and beautiful animation have made this special a favorite for many.

What makes “The Halloween Tree” stand out is its mix of adventure and education. The special introduces viewers to the deeper cultural and historical roots of Halloween while maintaining an exciting and eerie atmosphere. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a Halloween special that combines mystery and meaningful lessons.

Monsters vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space

First airing in 2009, Monsters vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space has become a fun, modern Halloween favorite. In this special, the quirky team of monsters, led by Susan (Ginormica), defends Earth from alien pumpkin invaders. As the pumpkins start to mutate and wreak havoc, the monsters must stop them before it’s too late. The special’s combination of CGI animation, fun characters, and thrilling plot makes it an exciting addition to Halloween television.

What makes this special stand out is its unique mix of sci-fi and Halloween tropes. The spookiness of the alien pumpkins is balanced with the lighthearted humor of the monster characters, making it perfect for younger viewers while still entertaining adults. The vibrant animation and humorous plotlines keep the show fresh, while the monsters’ unlikely heroism provides a heartwarming message about teamwork. As a newer special, Monsters vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space has quickly earned its place as a Halloween tradition, offering a modern take on the spooky season that continues to delight audiences.

The Addams Family Halloween Special

This 1977 special brings the eerie, kooky family into the Halloween spirit. Known for their love of all things spooky, the Addams Family’s Halloween-themed special showcases their unique take on the holiday. With their traditional creepy humor and family bonds, the Addams Family becomes even more endearing in this Halloween adventure.

What makes the Addams Family Halloween Special so enjoyable is the way it highlights the family’s quirky dynamics while celebrating Halloween in a way that’s both spooky and humorous. The characters’ eccentricities provide endless fun and laughter, making it perfect for both kids and adults alike.

Witch’s Night Out

This 1978 animated special follows a witch named Sybil who, with the help of her magical powers, brings Halloween fun to a small town. After a group of kids unintentionally summons her, she uses her magic to grant them a wild and memorable night of adventure. The colorful animation and whimsical story make it a fun and lighthearted Halloween classic.

The magic of “Witch’s Night Out” lies in its playful tone and the heartwarming connection between the witch and the kids. It’s a perfect example of a Halloween special that focuses on fun and fantasy rather than scares. Its imaginative story and warm visuals make it enjoyable for families.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.