Hallmark has carved out a cozy holiday niche over the years, but with Haul Out the Halloween, the network takes a bold (and delightfully spooky) step into new seasonal territory. Premiering October 11, this festive spin-off of the beloved Haul Out the Holly series blends autumn charm, neighborhood antics, and just enough Halloween magic to satisfy both rom-com fans and lovers of seasonal fun.
At the heart of the story, Lacey Chabert and Wes Brown return with their signature Hallmark chemistry—playful, heartfelt, and effortlessly comforting. Their characters anchor the chaos of Evergreen Lane (or should we say EverSCREAM Lane), where the community bands together to transform the neighborhood into a haunted wonderland for a local charity. The premise feels classic Hallmark at its core—community, family, and love—but dressed up with cobwebs, pumpkins, and just enough frightful flair.
The addition of Kimberly J. Brown and Daniel Kountz—real-life couple and fan favorites from Halloweentown—is an inspired stroke. Their characters, Luna and Marvin, are Halloween enthusiasts whose passion ignites the transformation of the neighborhood. For longtime fans of Disney Channel’s Halloweentown, their reunion is a nostalgic treat that bridges generations of holiday movie lovers.
Tonally, Haul Out the Halloween strikes a playful balance. While it never veers into genuine horror—this is still Hallmark, after all—it sprinkles in just enough spooky charm to keep things fresh. Think pumpkin carving contests, elaborate haunted houses, and quirky costume mishaps. The scares are light, but the laughter and warmth are abundant.
The film’s visual design is a standout. EverSCREAM Lane bursts with orange-and-black hues, twinkling lights, and whimsical decorations that feel straight out of a storybook. Hallmark has always excelled at world-building through seasonal décor, and this Halloween edition is no exception—it’s cozy, festive, and guaranteed to spark viewers’ decorating inspiration.
What truly elevates the film is its message of community spirit. By tying the spooky festivities to a charity cause, the story reinforces the Hallmark hallmark (pun intended) of giving back and finding joy in togetherness. It’s a reminder that holidays—be they Christmas, Valentine’s, or Halloween—are ultimately about connection.
Lacey Chabert shines once again as the queen of Hallmark charm. Her comedic timing during the more chaotic moments—whether wrangling costumes or facing down an overzealous haunted house prop—is balanced by her knack for delivering heartfelt sincerity. Wes Brown complements her perfectly, offering a grounded warmth that makes their relationship feel lived-in and believable.
For fans of Haul Out the Holly, the Halloween edition feels both familiar and refreshingly new. It’s the same neighborhood camaraderie and heartfelt storytelling audiences adore, simply filtered through the lens of pumpkins, bats, and playful chills. It also leaves the door wide open for Hallmark to expand the concept into other holidays—imagine Haul Out the Harvest or Haul Out the Fireworks.
Though some may wish for more daring frights, the lighthearted approach makes the movie accessible for families, couples, and anyone seeking wholesome seasonal entertainment. Its charm lies in the fact that it never tries to be more than what it is: a feel-good story dressed in Halloween colors.
Ultimately, Haul Out the Halloween is a treat without the trick. It’s festive, heartwarming, and bursting with the kind of cozy seasonal magic that Hallmark does best. For viewers who want a dose of Halloween spirit without leaving behind the comforting glow of Hallmark tradition, this is the perfect seasonal indulgence.
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 – Wholesome, charming, and spookily sweet, Haul Out the Halloween is proof that Hallmark magic works just as well with pumpkins as it does with mistletoe.
