10 Great Kid's Movies to Watch This Halloween

Halloween's right around the corner, and this year, why not spend some time cuddled up to your little ones and enjoying some classic entertainment? Whether it's a small private party or your little monster has his or her friends over for a bash, these films are sure to please!

1. It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

This movie's a real classic, but there's a good reason for it. Relive the great memories of this Halloween special, and find joy in introducing it to a whole new generation. All the characters are loveable and the story's still so cute after all this time.

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

Two for the price of one! Disney's classic adaptions of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "The Wind in the Willows" will amuse both young and older alike. Both stories are unforgettable and the characters (especially the Headless Horseman) will have your kids talking for days afterwards.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Jack Skellington, the king of Halloweentown, discovers the magic of Christmas and tries to bring it back with him. This Tim Burton film is fun, entertaining, and memorable for kids of all ages, though there may be some scary images for the really young crowd. Look for some really catchy songs (as with most Disney films).

4. Beetle Juice (1988)

Another Tim Burton classic that would fare better with the older crowd that stars big names like Michael Keaton, Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, and Winona Ryder (just to name a few). Keaton is unforgettable as the rude, crass, and hilarious Beetlejuice. And the movie's great because of it's dark humor and fast-moving pace.

5. Gremlins (1984)

Oddly enough, this tale takes place around Christmas, but I believe it's scary enough to be considered for a Halloween bash. This one is definitely for the older kids as some of the creatures could be really frightening to younger minds. Gizmo is adorable and Stripe is just kind of funny, but either way, it's great fun and a timeless story that even kids of today could enjoy.

6. Monsters, Inc. (2001)

I can't say enough good things about the Pixar Studios, and this flick was just another perfect product that became an instant classic. Children of all ages (from the very young to the adults who are raising them) can easily follow and cherish the adventures of Boo, Sulley and Mike through Monstropolis. Look for a great cameo from the Abominable Snowman (voiced by John Ratzenberger of Cheers fame) that'll have you cracking up.

7. Hocus Pocus (1993)

How can you not appreciate a film that stars three big-hitters like Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy? With a little something for everyone, this tale of three witches trying to steal the lives of the children of Salem, MA, includes great laughs and catchy musical aspects.

8. Casper (1995)

The classic cartoon becomes live-action in this well-adapted story that follows a paranormal expert and his daughter and their interactions with three trouble-making ghosts and, of course, Casper ("the friendly ghost"). Appearances by Mr. Rogers and Ben Stein really add charm to this great family tale.

9. The Corpse Bride (2005)

Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter are fantastic in this Tim Burton vision that is clever and enjoyable for the whole family. But don't be fooled, though it might look like Burton's previous treasure, The Nightmare Before Christmas, it's quite a different story. This is a great one for the whole family to sit together for, no matter what time of year.

10. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)

Really, any of the Harry Potter movies would probably do for this holiday. I chose Order of the Phoenix because it's a personal favorite. The children are starting to take a turn towards adulthood and the time-traveling sequence was a real jaw-dropper.

So that's my list of 10 movies that would be appropriate for a either a family's night in or a Halloween bash. Above all, have a good time this holiday, and make sure the kids are having a blast while staying safe!