Your go-to guide for a thrilling Halloween

10 activities to get into the Halloween spirit: spooky movies, tv shows, thrilling book picks, eerie recipes, podcasts, tips for hosting the ultimate Halloween party and more.

‘The Hunting of Hill House’ (2018)

As the October’s days slowly slip away right before our eyes, we are gliding towards perhaps the most anticipated day of the month: Halloween.

With each passing week, we are increasingly entering the autumn vibe, experiencing all the characteristics of the season, including the spooky one.

That time of the year finally came, the spookiest season to experience. Not everyone particularly enjoys this time, whether it’s due to the eerie vibes, ghosts, and vampires, to which many people might be sensitive. However, I bet that if you clicked on this post, it’s because you are somewhat familiar with it and curious to know how to make the most of this month.

Specifically this year, I feel the spooky vibes much more alive than last year. It’s definitely not because of the weather. The warmth refuses to leave, and despite the fact that we’re approaching the end of October (which makes me very sad), it’s still 23 degrees during the day, preventing me from showcasing my beloved sweaters and autumn jackets. But we won’t let the still-summer temperatures hinder us from getting into the Halloween spirit.

When I think back to my childhood, when everything was more carefree, my eyes get a bit misty. When I was little, every year on October 31st—the day of Halloween—the town used to organize an evening parade where all the costumed children were invited to participate. We would stroll through the town, armed with candies, streamers, and lanterns, exploring the streets adorned with pumpkins and skeletons (we only noticed the ones that were decorated), and we would wrap up our tour in the clearing near my house where the witch was burned. It was a beautiful, special moment to share with friends. We all gathered in the same place to celebrate a holiday that was not widely felt but was capable of entertaining all the kids who, dressed as their favorite monsters, went trick-or-treating.

I admit that I had relatively few opportunities to participate in this Halloween parade. Growing up, I celebrated this day at friends’ houses, where we organized themed parties, with everyone dressing up as their favorite horror characters, eating candies and savory treats, and then watching horror movies.

If you’ve read my spooky entertainment guide, you know that horror films don’t thrill me, especially when I’m alone. But if I'm with my friends, there’s no better movie than a horror film to scare ourselves together.

In recent years, however, I’ve celebrated October 31st not so often. Two years ago, I experienced my Erasmus in Belgium. To celebrate Halloween that particular year, I went with my new friends to this huge student house outside the city, reachable only by bus. My friends and I dressed as pirates and danced all night on the dance floor. It was a beautiful and super fun evening, like being in one of those American teen movies.

For the rest, in recent years, I’ve always celebrated this holiday with a few friends, organizing very simple evenings at a friend's house and eating junk food hihi.

Each of us has our own traditions, special days to share with those we care about the most.

But instead, what about you? Do you celebrate Halloween? How did you celebrate Halloween when you were little? And now? I’m always very curious to hear about your experiences and read your thoughts.

This spooky guide you’re about to read contains everything you need to get into the Halloween mood. It has been written specifically to guide you through media and culture recommendations, beauty tips, recipes, and spooky activities to do while waiting for the scariest day of the year.

I decided to write this guide a bit differently from my usual ones, to better orient you in the activities to do during this time.

With that being said, here are 10 activities to embrace and immerse yourself in the spooky season!

1. WATCH SCARY MOVIES & TV SHOWS

As clichéd as it may sound, nothing quite captures the Halloween spirit like a good horror movie.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the mood is by indulging in entertainment, whether it’s films or TV shows. I've already published my spooky entertainment guide, recommending films and TV shows to watch this time of year to prepare for Halloween.

However, I want to expand that list with some additional picks. If you're in the mood for films specifically about vampires, ghosts, or werewolves, I’ll provide a list of two films and TV series for each theme.

— VAMPIRE TALES

MOVIES

• Interview with the Vampire (1994)— A gothic epic that follows the life of Louis, a man turned into a vampire in the 18th century by Lestat. While Louis struggles to hold onto his humanity, Lestat fully embraces the power and immortality of their condition. The story unfolds through an interview Louis gives to a journalist, exploring themes of immortality, love, and despair.

• Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)— Directed by Jim Jarmusch, this film tells the story of Adam (Tom Hiddleston), a solitary and disillusioned vampire musician, and his lover Eve (Tilda Swinton), an elegant and cultured vampire. Living separately between Detroit and Tangier, the two reunite to confront the boredom and emptiness of immortality, reflecting on art, culture, and the decaying state of humanity.

TV SHOWS

• What We Do in the Shadows — This hilarious mockumentary comedy series, based on the 2014 film of the same name, dives into the everyday lives of four vampire roommates Nandor (Kayvan Novak), Laszlo (Matt Berry), Nadja (Natasia Demetriou), and the energy vampire Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch)—living in Staten Island. The show cleverly juxtaposes their supernatural abilities with the banalities of modern life, creating a unique comedic dynamic.

• Midnight, Texas— Based on Charlaine Harris's book series, this supernatural drama revolves around a small town in Texas that serves as a safe haven for outcasts, including vampires, witches, and other supernatural beings. The story follows a newcomer, Manfred Bernardo, who possesses psychic abilities, as he discovers the secrets of Midnight and forms alliances with its quirky inhabitants

— GHOSTS TALES

MOVIES

• The Sixth Sense (1999)— This psychological thriller, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, follows the story of Cole Sear (Haley Joel Osment), a young boy who can see and communicate with the dead. His secret leads him to seek help from Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis), a child psychologist who tries to understand Cole's ability.

• Ghost (1990)— A romantic fantasy that tells the story of Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze), who is murdered and becomes a ghost. Unable to move on, Sam stays behind to protect his girlfriend Molly (Demi Moore) from danger. With the help of a quirky medium, Oda Mae Brown (Whoopi Goldberg), Sam communicates with Molly and works to solve the mystery of his death.

TV SHOWS

• Supernatural— This long-running fantasy horror series follows brothers Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) as they travel across the United States hunting monsters, demons, and other supernatural creatures. Each episode typically features a new case, drawing on folklore and urban legends, while also weaving in a larger narrative involving angels, hellhounds, and the apocalypse.

• Constantine— Based on the DC Comics character John Constantine, this series follows the titular character (Matt Ryan), a seasoned demon hunter and occult detective who struggles with his past and the consequences of his actions. Tasked with protecting humanity from supernatural threats, Constantine navigates a dark world filled with demons, spirits, and magic.

— WEREWOLVES TALES

MOVIES

• The Howling (1981)— Directed by Joe Dante, this horror film follows news anchor Karen White (Dee Wallace) after she survives a terrifying encounter with a serial killer. Seeking therapy, she retreats to a remote coastal community known for its secluded atmosphere. However, she soon discovers that the residents are werewolves, leading to a series of horrifying events

• Underworld (2003)— This action-horror film directed by Len Wiseman presents a dark and stylized universe where vampires and werewolves (known as Lycans) are engaged in a centuries-old war. The story follows Selene (Kate Beckinsale), a vampire death dealer tasked with hunting Lycans. However, her life takes a turn when she discovers a human named Michael Corvin (Scott Speedman) who becomes entangled in the conflict.

TV SHOWS

• Teen Wolf— this is a GOOD one!! This supernatural drama series follows the story of Scott McCall (Tyler Posey), a high school student who is bitten by a werewolf during a night in the woods. As Scott grapples with his new identity and supernatural abilities, he must also navigate the challenges of teenage life, including friendships, romance, and school pressures. With the help of his best friend Stiles Stilinski (Dylan O'Brien) and his love interest, Allison Argent (Kristen Hager), Scott learns to embrace his wolf side while facing various supernatural threats, including hunters, banshees, and other creatures.

• Bitten— Based on Kelley Armstrong's "Women of the Otherworld" novels, this series follows Elena Michaels (Laura Vandervoort), the world’s only female werewolf, as she navigates her life in the human world while trying to escape her pack's influence. After leaving her pack in order to live a normal life, she becomes embroiled in a conflict when a series of murders occur, prompting her to return to her supernatural roots.

2. READ SPOOKY BOOKS

Do you have that timeless book just waiting for you on your shelf? Or that highly praised thriller resting on your nightstand? You know exactly which ones I mean. Now is the perfect moment to dive into them and dedicate some time—whether it’s day or night.

Here are 5 perfect books for the spooky season.

• ’Salem’s Lot (by Stephen King)— What kind of scary book recommendation list would it be without including Stephen King? This chilling tale follows writer Ben Mears as he returns to his childhood hometown, Jerusalem’s Lot, only to become embroiled in a sinister plot involving dark forces, evil, and vampires overtaking the town. King’s masterful storytelling brings to life some of the most terrifying and haunting imagery I have ever encountered. His extraordinary ability to evoke a sense of overwhelming dread is so profound that the narration and fictional scenarios left me afraid to glance out my window at night

• Beautiful Darkness (by Fabien Vehlmann and Marie Pommepuy)— The narrative centers around a small, sprite-like creature named Aurora and her ‘friends’ as they emerge from the mind of their host—the real Aurora—a young girl who has mysteriously died and been abandoned in the forest. As the seasons change, whimsical watercolor illustrations portray the creatures being systematically eliminated—by nature and one another—revealing that no one is coming to retrieve Aurora. We are left to ponder the fate of the little girl and what the tales of the small beings who escaped her consciousness at the moment of her death can reveal about her and her passing.

• The Haunting of Hill House (by Shirley Jackson)— This classic gothic horror novel revolves around the eerie Hill House, a mansion with a dark history. Dr. John Montague, an investigator of supernatural phenomena, invites a group of individuals, including the sensitive Eleanor Vance and the intellectual Theodora, to stay in the house to observe any paranormal activity. As the days unfold, strange occurrences escalate, and the characters grapple with their own fears and past traumas, leading to chilling revelations about the house's influence and the nature of terror itself.

• The Graveyard Book (by Neil Gaiman)— A young boy named Nobody Owens, known as Bod, is raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family is murdered. As Bod grows up among the spirits, he learns about life, death, and the world outside the graveyard's gates. Gaiman weaves together elements of fantasy and horror, creating a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity and belonging, while Bod faces dangers from the living and the supernatural alike.

• All Hallows (by Christopher Golden)— Set on Halloween night, All Hallows intertwines the lives of several characters in a suburban neighborhood as they encounter supernatural events and dark secrets. The story unfolds through interconnected narratives, revealing the impact of the night on a group of children and adults alike. As they confront both the horrors of the unknown and their personal struggles, Golden crafts a chilling tale that captures the essence of Halloween, blending nostalgia with suspense and mystery.

3. PUMPKIN CARVING

As Halloween approaches, it’s time to dive into one of the most beloved traditions: pumpkin carving! This age-old practice has enchanted generations and is a fantastic way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro with a collection of tools or a beginner just getting started, this festive activity is perfect for all ages and brings out your creative side. It’s not just about the final product; it’s about the joy of the process and the laughter shared along the way.

Why Pumpkin Carving? Not only is pumpkin carving a wonderful outlet for artistic expression, but it also sets the perfect Halloween mood. As you scoop out the insides, the smell of fresh pumpkin fills the air, evoking memories of past Halloweens. The best part? Each carved pumpkin tells a story, reflecting your unique personality and style.

From traditional jack-o'-lantern faces that bring a nostalgic charm to intricate designs that showcase your skills, the possibilities are truly endless.

Everyone can pitch in, whether they’re sketching designs, gutting pumpkins, or getting creative with decorations. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to share tips and tricks, learn from one another, and celebrate the Halloween spirit together.

4. CREATE A SPOOKY PLAYLIST

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the Halloween ambiance than by curating the ultimate spooky playlist. The right soundtrack can transform any activity into a hauntingly memorable experience.

You know that perfect playlist just waiting to be assembled? Or those spine-chilling tracks lurking in your music library? You know exactly what I mean. Now’s the time to gather those haunting melodies and set the tone for the season. I won’t be suggesting specific songs; you already have your favorites in mind. But I will recommend one of my playlists that will guide you through this week leading up to Halloween.

5. TUNE INTO SPOOKY THRILLER PODCASTS

Let’s dive into one of the easiest ways to set the Halloween mood: tuning into some thrilling podcasts! From spine-tingling murder mysteries to eerie paranormal encounters and suspenseful thrillers, there’s a podcast out there that’ll give you all the chills you need this season. Imagine putting on a cozy sweater, grabbing a warm drink, and just settling in for a journey full of mysteries, thrillers, and maybe even some ghost stories. You can pop on a podcast while you’re doing something around the house, on a walk, or just curled up in your favorite spot. It’s the perfect mix of cozy and creepy—keeping you in that Halloween vibe without needing to put in a ton of effort.

If you need some inspiration, here are a few spine-chilling recommendations:

• SPINES

  Ever feel like you want a little dose of mystery mixed with the supernatural? Spines is where you’ll find it. Follow Wren as she wakes up covered in blood with zero memory of how she got there—and things only get wilder. This one’s for you if you’re craving a dark, twisting mystery with cults and the occult at every turn.

• ARCHIVE 81

  Archive 81 takes you into a world of strange recordings, found footage, and hidden secrets. You’re following Dan, an archivist who uncovers terrifying mysteries through old tapes. It’s eerie, it’s intense, and trust me, it’ll keep you hooked till the very last episode.

• RADIO RENTAL

  Radio Rental is a treasure trove of bizarre and chilling real-life stories. Hosted by a quirky fictional video store clerk, this podcast feels like a series of late-night campfire stories but with that extra creep factor. Each episode is packed with true tales of the unexplained—from paranormal encounters to bizarre coincidences that’ll leave you in chills.

• LIMETOWN

  Imagine an entire town disappearing without a trace. Limetown takes you on a suspenseful journey as journalist Lia Haddock tries to uncover what happened to the 300 people who vanished from a small town. It’s like Serial meets The X-Files—perfect if you’re in the mood for mystery with a hint of conspiracy.

• CREEPY

  If you’re up for true horror stories, Creepy is your go-to. It brings you the scariest tales from the darkest corners of the internet. It’s filled with chilling narrations, from creepy pastas to listener-submitted nightmares. This one’s for the true horror lovers who don’t mind a few sleepless nights.

6. BAKE SPOOKY TREATS

Ready to throw a Halloween bash that’s anything but ordinary? You’ll want treats that are not just frighteningly fun but also deliciously delightful. If you’re searching for the perfect Halloween drink, appetizer, or dessert that seems straight out of a mad scientist's lab, look no further. I won’t be listing out the recipes here; I know you’re eager to whip up some spooky creations. Just know that these thrilling Halloween recipes, featuring devilishly delicious poison apples, and monstrous truffles, are sure to impress and satisfy!

So, here’s a list of my favourites spooky recipes

• Witch finger cookies

• Mini pillsbury cookie cheesecakes

• Mummy hot-dogs

• Jack Skellington oreo pops

• Candy apples

• Monster truffles

• Jack-O’-Lantern sandwich cookies

• Bloody Red Velvet Cake

• Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Bones

• Frankenstein Brownies

7. HOST A THEMED PARTY

As the nights grow darker and the air turns crisp, it’s time to embrace the eerie enchantment of Halloween.

One of the best ways to celebrate the spooky season is to party with friends. So, why not throw a themed party? Here are some ideas on how to organize it.

• Choose a Theme: Decide if you want a general Halloween vibe or something specific, like haunted house or classic monsters. This will help guide your decorations and activities.

• Decorate: Transform your space into a spooky wonderland! Hang up cobwebs, put out jack-o’-lanterns, and use string lights to set the mood. Don’t forget the creepy sound effects!

• Treats and Snacks: Prepare some classic Halloween snacks like candy corn, popcorn balls, and themed cupcakes. You can use my recipes in the previus point!

• Games and Activities: Plan some fun games like bobbing for apples, a Halloween trivia quiz, or a spooky scavenger hunt. These will keep everyone entertained!

• Movie Time: At the end of the night, set up a cozy movie area and watch some classic Halloween films. It’s the perfect way to wind down after all the excitement!

8. SELF-CARE NIGHT IN FOR THOSE WHO WANTS MORE CHILL & COZYNESS

Alright, friends, let’s dive into one of my favorite parts of the spooky season—getting cozy! As the nights grow longer and a chill sets in, there’s nothing better than curling up in a warm blanket and fully embracing the Halloween vibes. This is a season for cozy self-care, a chance to make a little haven just for you.

First things first: create your cozy corner. Find your favorite blankets and pillows (maybe even add a few spooky-themed ones!), dim the lights, and light some pumpkin-scented candles to set the mood. With that warm, inviting glow, you’ll feel a special kind of magic in the air.

Now, it’s snack time! Grab a warm drink—think hot chocolate, apple cider, or herbal tea—and whip up a batch of Halloween treats or your favorite cookies. There’s something unbeatable about a sweet snack and a cozy drink in hand while you watch spooky movies or read a thrilling book. If you’re in need of ideas, my Halloween entertainment guide has plenty of inspiration to keep you in the spirit.

Don’t forget to treat yourself. Take a moment for self-care, maybe with a bubble bath or a face mask while you relax with your favorite show. And if you’re in the mood to reflect, jot down some thoughts in a journal about the week, your Halloween plans, or even things you’re grateful for.

So take a deep breath, gather your cozy essentials, and savor these little moments that make the spooky season so special. It’s all about enjoying the simple pleasures, recharging your spirit, and making memories you’ll cherish.

9. DRESSING UP LIKE YOUR FAVOURITE MONSTER

Alright, monster lovers, let’s dive into one of the most exciting parts of Halloween—dressing up like your favorite creature! Whether you’re a fan of classic monsters or the latest horror icons, there’s something magical about transforming into a character that sends shivers down your spine.

Think about who your favorite monster is. Are you drawn to the classic elegance of a vampire, the rugged charm of a werewolf, or perhaps the quirky antics of a zombie? The options are endless.

Another fun idea is to get your friends involved. Why not coordinate a group costume? You could have a classic monster mash with Frankenstein, the mummy, and the bride of Frankenstein all in one room.

And let’s not forget about the fun of wearing your costume out! Whether it’s to a Halloween party, trick-or-treating, or just a spooky movie night, embracing your inner monster brings a unique thrill to the season.

10. SPOOKY PLACES TO EXPLORE

As October rolls in, it’s not just about the chills and thrills of Halloween; it’s also about exploring some of the most haunted and beautifully decorated places. There’s something so enchanting about wandering through towns that transform into autumn wonderlands, don’t you think? The decorations, the crisp air—it’s all part of what makes this time of year so special.

Imagine wandering through neighborhoods decked out in cobwebs, skeletons, and glowing pumpkins. It’s like stepping into a Halloween movie! Some places really go all out, and it’s such a fun way to soak up the festive spirit.

Speaking of creativity, how about visiting places steeped in history? Many towns have ghost stories and legends that add a little thrill to your outing.

Don’t forget about the great outdoors! Parks and nature trails can be breathtaking in the fall, with leaves turning vibrant shades of red and gold. Some parks even host fun fall activities like pumpkin picking or corn mazes, which are perfect for making some unforgettable memories. Plus, who doesn’t love sipping on warm cider while enjoying the beautiful scenery?

And if you’re feeling brave, look for local haunted attractions. They can be a blast—just be prepared for some jumps and scares! It’s always more fun to experience these things with friends, sharing screams and laughter as you navigate through the spooky attractions together.

Lastly, keep an eye out for community events! Whether it’s a costume party, a Halloween movie night, or a festive festival, these gatherings are a fantastic way to connect with other Halloween enthusiasts and embrace the spirit of the season.

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And there you have it, my spooky friends! We’ve journeyed through all the cozy, thrilling, and downright fun ways to embrace the Halloween spirit this season. Whether you’re diving into a chilling read, hosting a ghoulish gathering, or exploring some haunted locales, there’s no shortage of ways to make this October unforgettable.

Remember, the best part of Halloween isn’t just the frights—it’s the moments shared with friends and loved ones. So, gather your crew, get creative, and don’t be afraid to indulge in the spooky vibes that make this time of year so special.

I hope you find some inspiration in this guide to make the most of the spooky season. I can’t wait to hear about your Halloween adventures! What are you most excited about this season? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s share the Halloween love!

With Love,

—Michela.

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