Our Annual Tradition with a Sweet Apple Twist
There’s something special about traditions that grow with your family. For us, it’s our annual Halloween movie night—a cozy, creative evening that’s become one of my daughter’s favorite fall rituals. Last year, we went all out with a Hocus Pocus-themed night, complete with witchy snacks, spellbook crafts, and black flame candle vibes. This year, we’re switching gears and going full-on fall with a DIY Apple Bar that’s equal parts delicious and festive.
Setting the Scene: Halloween Movie Night Essentials
Whether you’re watching spooky classics or kid-friendly favorites, the key to a great Halloween movie night is ambiance. Here’s how we set the mood:
- Blankets and pillows galore—think fort-style coziness
- String lights or flameless candles for that soft, flickering glow
- Themed decorations—pumpkins, bats, and a few DIY crafts from earlier in the season
- A curated movie list (this year’s picks include Casper and Hubie Halloween)
This Year’s Star: The Apple Bar Buffet
Instead of the usual candy overload, we’re embracing fall flavors with an Apple Bar—a build-your-own station that’s fun, interactive, and surprisingly easy to set up.
What’s on our Apple Bar:
- Apple slices (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji for variety)
- Dips: Caramel, chocolate, marshmallow fluff, peanut butter
- Toppings: Crushed pretzels, mini M&Ms, sprinkles, chopped nuts, graham cracker crumbs
- Extras: Skewers for dipping, mini cauldrons for toppings, and a few spooky labels for flair
It’s a hit with kids and adults alike—and way less messy than traditional caramel apples. Plus, it doubles as a dessert and activity all in one.
Why We Love It
This tradition isn’t just about the snacks or the movies. It’s about slowing down, getting creative, and making memories. Watching my daughter light up as she builds her apple masterpiece or quotes lines from her favorite Halloween flicks is the real treat.
Bonus Ideas for Your Own Halloween Movie Night
Want to make your Halloween movie night extra special? Try these:
- Themed pajamas (witches, pumpkins, or ghosts—take your pick!)
- DIY popcorn mix station with candy corn, chocolate chips, and marshmallows
- Printable movie tickets for a “home theater” vibe
- Craft break between movies—like decorating mini pumpkins or making spooky bookmarks
Whether you’re starting a new tradition or adding a twist to an old one, Halloween movie night is the perfect way to celebrate the season with heart, humor, and a whole lot of snacks. And if you’ve never tried an apple bar before—trust me, this is the year to do it.
So grab your comfiest blanket, cue up the classics (or the spooky sillies), and let the countdown to candy-fueled chaos begin. Whether you’re team caramel drizzle or peanut butter crunch, your apple bar awaits, and so does the magic of a night made for memories. Happy haunting!
With coffee in one hand and an apple slice in the other,
💛Bethany