Halloween is a time for spooky delights, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in some scary Halloween TV episodes? These episodes not only capture the essence of the season but also provide a perfect blend of thrills and chills for the whole family to enjoy. From classic shows to modern favourites, we’ve curated a list of the 13 best Halloween TV episodes that are sure to make your night memorable. So grab your pumpkin-spiced treats, dim the lights, and prepare for a spine-tingling adventure!
1. “Halloween, Addams Style” – The Addams Family (1965)
The Addams Family has always been synonymous with Halloween, and their Halloween-themed episode, “Halloween, Addams Style,” is a true delight. As Wednesday Addams goes trick-or-treating, she encounters a thoughtless neighbor who claims witches aren’t real. Determined to prove her wrong, Morticia and Gomez organise a seance to contact Aunt Singe, a witch burned at the stake in Salem. The episode perfectly captures the eerie charm of the Addams Family, with its dark humour and unique take on the holiday.
2. “Halloween” – Modern Family (2010)
For fans of the hit sitcom Modern Family, the Halloween episode is always a highlight. In this particular episode, Claire, the family’s Halloween enthusiast, plans an elaborate haunted house. However, things don’t go as planned, and chaos ensues. Phil is consumed by paranoia, Gloria adopts an English accent, and Cam relives past Halloween traumas. Despite the mishaps, the family comes together to deliver scares and laughs in equal measure, making it a must-watch Halloween treat.
3. “The One with the Halloween Party” – Friends (2001)
Friends, the beloved sitcom that captured the hearts of millions, had only one full Halloween episode throughout its ten-season run. In “The One with the Halloween Party,” Monica and Chandler throw a costume party that leads to hilarious mishaps and surprises. From Chandler’s costume mix-up to Ross’s cleverly punny Spudnik outfit, this episode showcases the show’s signature humor and relatable moments. It’s a perfect choice for a lighthearted and nostalgic Halloween viewing.
4. “Horrority House” – Big Mouth (Season 4, Episode 9)
Big Mouth is known for its raunchy and irreverent humour, but its Halloween episode, “Horrority House,” takes a delightfully spooky turn. When the kids visit a haunted sorority house, they find themselves trapped in their worst fears. Each character faces their own personalised nightmare, all while the hormone monsters embark on their own mysterious adventure. With its trippy visuals, witty writing, and insightful commentary on adolescence, this episode is a treat for fans of the show and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
5. “Chapter Two: The Dark Baptism” – Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (Part 1, Episode 2)
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina offers a darker take on the beloved teenage witch, and its Halloween-themed episode, “Chapter Two: The Dark Baptism,” sets the tone for the series. As Sabrina turns 16, she must make a life-altering choice between the human and witch worlds. The episode delves into the supernatural rituals and temptations that surround Sabrina’s birthday, while also exploring important themes of identity and sacrifice. With its atmospheric setting and captivating performances, this episode is a must-watch for fans of supernatural dramas.
6. “Epidemiology” – Community (Season 2, Episode 6)
Community, known for its clever meta-humor and quirky characters, delivers a memorable Halloween episode with “Epidemiology.” When a Halloween party at Greendale Community College goes awry due to contaminated taco meat, a zombie outbreak ensues. The study group must navigate the chaos and find a way to save themselves before the army arrives. This episode parodies classic zombie and horror tropes while showcasing the show’s trademark wit and ensemble cast chemistry.
7. “I Am Ashamed” – Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (Season 4, Episode 2)
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’s Halloween episode, “I Am Ashamed,” combines humor and psychological insight in a unique way. Rebecca and Heather discover that their home was once a murder house, setting the stage for a spooky and introspective exploration of shame and fear. As Rebecca becomes obsessed with contacting a deceased victim, the episode touches on themes of guilt, vulnerability, and the lengths we go to confront our past. With its blend of comedy and poignant storytelling, this episode is a standout in the series.
8. “Treehouse of Horror” – The Simpsons (1990-present)
No Halloween TV episode list would be complete without mentioning The Simpsons’ iconic “Treehouse of Horror” episodes. These annual specials, which have been a tradition since 1990, feature three separate Halloween-themed segments with a mix of horror, parody, and humour. From chilling tales of supernatural happenings to satirical takes on popular culture, each “Treehouse of Horror” episode offers a diverse range of stories that appeal to both children and adults. It’s a timeless Halloween tradition that has become synonymous with the holiday itself.
9. “Halloween, PT.1 and PT.2” – American Horror Story: Murder House (Season 1, Episode 4 and 5)
American Horror Story is known for its twisted and terrifying storytelling, and its Halloween episode, “Halloween,” is no exception. Set in the haunted Murder House, this episode explores the dark secrets and horrors that lurk within its walls. As the Harmon family encounters ghostly figures and eerie occurrences, the episode reveals the true nature of the house and the disturbing events that have taken place there. With its atmospheric cinematography and chilling performances, this episode is a spine-tingling addition to any Halloween watchlist.
10. “Halloween” – Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Season 2, episode 6)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a cult favourite among horror and fantasy enthusiasts, delivers a standout Halloween episode with simply titled “Halloween.” In this episode, the town of Sunnydale is plagued by supernatural chaos as the Halloween night becomes all too real. As the characters find themselves transformed into the costumes they wear, they must navigate the dangerous consequences while battling actual monsters. With its mix of action, humour, and character-driven storytelling, this episode showcases the show’s unique blend of horror and heart.
11. “Fear itself” – Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Season 4, Episode 4)
Buffy and friend’s Halloween festivities take a terrifying turn in “Fear, Itself,” when they find themselves trapped in a haunted fraternity house where their deepest fears come to life. As they navigate through a maze of horror, battling real and psychological demons, the group learns valuable lessons about facing fears and the strength of friendship. With its clever mix of horror, humour, and heart, this episode is not only a Halloween delight but also a poignant exploration of the fears that haunt us, making it a worthy addition to your Halloween TV lineup.
12. “Return to Murder House” – American Horror Story: Apocalypse (Season 8, Episode 6)
American Horror Story: Apocalypse brings viewers back to the infamous Murder House in its aptly titled episode, “Return to Murder House.” As the characters revisit the haunted location, they encounter familiar spirits and face the consequences of past events. This episode serves as a crossover between the Murder House and Coven seasons, offering a blend of horror, supernatural elements, and character-driven storytelling. With its rich mythology and atmospheric setting, “Return to Murder House” is a must-watch for fans of the American Horror Story franchise.
13. “October 31” – Evil (Season 1, Episode 5)
In this chilling episode of Evil, on Halloween night, Kristen and David find themselves entrenched in a harrowing exorcism, while a mysterious girl named Brenda, donning a princess mask, brings a game of unsettling ghost stories and dares to Kristen’s daughters and their friends. As the night unfolds, the line between the living and the dead blurs, making “October 31” a truly haunting Halloween watch.
Conclusion
These 13 Halloween TV episodes are the perfect way to get into the spooky spirit and celebrate the season. From classic shows like The Addams Family and Friends to modern favourites like Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Evil, each episode offers a unique blend of scares, laughs, and memorable moments. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or spine-tingling thrills, these episodes are sure to make your Halloween night a memorable one. So grab the popcorn, gather around the TV, and prepare for a hauntingly good time!