It’s Halloween time, and as the days grow shorter and the air feels crisper, a familiar anticipation fills the atmosphere. Halloween enthusiasts gather around their screens for classic horror marathons, scary new releases and maybe a favorite slasher or two. But these classic animated shorts might be worth a watch for those seeking a cozy, nostalgic twist and something a little lighter but still full of Halloween charm. They’re not about jump scares or blood-curdling shrieks, rather, they’re all about that sense of childhood wonder. They capture the spirit of Halloween that is full of magic, just a little bit eerie and feels close enough to touch.
Here are five fun animated classics to curl up with this Halloween:
5. “The Haunted House” (1929)
Silent, black-and-white and irresistibly charming, “Mickey Mouse: The Haunted House” sends audiences back to the old era of animation. It is here we find Mickey, daring to enter a haunted house full of ghosts and skeletons, accompanied by a sinister organ melody. There’s a mischief to this early Mickey, far from the polished icon he has become. The thrill of the grainy visuals and early horror influences makes this a Halloween treasure for those who love vintage animation. Watch it on YouTube.
4. “Halloween Is Grinch Night” (1977)
Before he plotted to steal Christmas, the Grinch took on Halloween. Set on a foggy night in Whoville, “Halloween Is Grinch Night” melds Seuss’ rhymes with an eerie, surreal twist that veers far into the bizarre. The Grinch’s eyes glow, the landscape swirls and the audience is taken to a strange world. Seuss may not be known for Halloween stories, but with one unforgettable musical number and visuals that haunt, he proves that even Halloween is no match for the Grinch. Available on YouTube.
3. “Trick or Treat” (1952)
Nothing says Halloween like a little mischief and Donald Duck and his nephews deliver just that in “Trick or Treat.” When stingy Uncle Donald Duck refuses to share his candy, his nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie get help from Witch Hazel to teach him a lesson. With a catchy theme song and creative tricks, this short continues to be a Halloween classic. It’s a Disney short that’s fun for everyone. Watch on Disney+.
2. “Vincent” (1982)
For those who like their Halloween a little darker, Tim Burton’s “Vincent” is a poetic dive into a young boy’s morbid delusions. Narrated by the legendary Vincent Price, this stop-motion short brings us into the mind of a young Vincent Malloy, who longs to be like his horror idol, living life as eerie and dramatic as a Gothic poem. The visuals are whimsical, twisted and somehow still endearing. Burton’s love for the strange and unusual finds its soul here with Price’s charm. Available on YouTube.
1. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” (1966)
Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” Each year, the Peanuts take us back to that magical October night as Linus awaits the arrival of the mythical Great Pumpkin. Through Linus’ loyal friendship with Charlie Brown and Lucy and Snoopy’s adventure as the “World War I flying ace,” audiences are reminded of the sweetness and wonder of childhood. Full of charm, sincerity and Halloween spirit, this short is a must-watch, year after year. Stream on Apple TV+.
Grab your pumpkin-spiced treat, dim the lights and enjoy these animated gems!
