It's finally August. Yes, this may mean to some that it's beach season or the final month of summer, but for some, it means something very different. For some of us, August means Halloween season is upon us. That's right, it's almost time to get spooky. Halloween decorations are already out at Target stores, and Walt Disney World is having their first "Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party" on August 17th. So, it's time to start getting into the spirit. Obviously, it isn't full-fledged hallow-season yet so we can't start browsing for costumes or stocking up on candy just yet, but there are plenty of other great ways to start feeling the vibes. I like to start watching my favorite spooky shows and movies, and thanks to things like Netflix and Hulu you have great binging resources right at your fingertips.
1. "Hocus Pocus."
This nostalgic childhood favorite was very popular for just about any kid who grew up in the 90's or early 2000's. "Hocus Pocus" follows a young boy who moves to a new town and accidentally raises three witches from the dead whilst trying to impress a girl. It's one of the perfect movies to get into the Halloween spirit. Especially if you're not someone who likes anything too scary.
2. "Stranger Things."
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"Stranger Things" is one of my personal favorite "binge-worthy" shows, and it has made this list for a number of reasons. First of all, it's super creepy. The first episode alone wins it a spot on this list. Not only that, it is on Netflix so it is pretty attainable for just about anyone. Not to mention, it is also going to be featured in "Halloween Horror Nights" this year! What better way to get your scary on?
3. "Practical Magic."
"Practical Magic" is a little unnerving at parts, but overall, it is more whimsical and magical than outright scary. It features Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sister witches who are trying to navigate life and love while balancing their witchy powers and duties. It's a good choice if you want something in the spirit, but also you love a good love story.
4. "American Horror Story."
This show is on the list firstly, for a similar reason as "Stranger Things". It's on Netflix, and this makes it pretty much available to almost anyone. Each season of the show tells a different story, so you don't have to watch them in order. They're all pretty equally terrifying. My personal favorites for getting into a Halloween feel would be season one, "Murder House", and season three, "Coven". Season one is filled with ghosts and murder and haunting and mystery, and season two features a gang of totally bad *ss witches
5. "It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown."
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This one makes the list, like "Hocus Pocus" because it's a childhood classic. It'll make you feel nostalgic, while also helping you get into the Hallow-Season spirit. The great pumpkin is the least scary movie on this list, and it doesn't really feature anything witchy or ghostly. It's just kids and their costumes, and Linus waiting for "The Great Pumpkin" to finally show up and harken in the holiday.
Halloween day may be in October, but it is never too early to start getting yourself into a ghoulish state of mind. August is the starting line. So start watching your favorite Halloween shows and movies, start slowly decorating your room, and start planning your group costumes. Halloween is will be upon us soon!
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