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Celebrating the most bewitching night of the year can be low-key tricky when you're getting too old to go door-to-door. Here's our treat to you: every essential you need to ace the official pastime of October (aka hosting a spooky movie night).

No need to spend hours brainstorming a clever costume for your whole friend group or losing sleep after a trip to a haunted house. It's just you, these must-haves and a night of not-too-frightful fun. 

1. A fall-tastic flick

The first step to any successful watch party? Choosing a flick that's the pick of the patch (get it?!). Go for something that perfectly balances that nostalgic, warm fall aesthetic with a sprinkle of suspense (bc gore-y horror = nightmare fuel). 

Rec incoming: the soon-to-be-Halloween-classic Treasure Trackers. Set in the charming fictional town of Carterville (where colorful leaves, woodsy libraries and maybe even a few spirits abound), this new movie is brimming with total autumnal aura.

And while it's packed with action, mystery and a few hair-raising moments, it's the kind of watch that keeps you on the edge of the couch (but not the kind where you'll have to keep your eyes covered half the time). 

Plus, we're always in favor of a strong-willed leading lady, which we get in Treasure Trackers in the form of Leah, an adventurous protagonist that we pretty much instantly root for as she searches for hidden gold and, oh yeah, tries to save her entire town. 

(Psst: Dare to see for yourself? Peep the trailer above.)

2. Your best buds

A creepy flick is best enjoyed with your crew (we're talking about the type of people that'll hold your hand when the eerie music starts).

If you're the kind of gal who identifies as a scaredy-cat (relatable), remember that you likely won't feel as jumpy with your pals by your side. Just like Leah and her friends Tessa and Marshy have each other's backs as they fight evil (and their high school rivals), being with your besties will make you feel sooo much braver.

3. Snacks galore 

No movie night is complete without a menu of spooky snacks (sweet, savory or why not both!?). We heart these yummy recipes if you're in the mood for a pre-party baking project. Want something more low-key? You can't go wrong with store-bought apple cider and a bucket of your fave candy. 

4. An extra dose of courage 

If there's one thing we can learn from Leah's quest in Treasure Trackers, it's that inner strength is ~everything~. Even though you likely won't ever find yourself in her exact sitch (here's hoping you never have to face off against an IRL ghost), her story can still give you the inspo you need to survive a semi-scary viewing experience. You can, in fact, handle daunting things—whether it's venturing a little outside your comfort zone on movie night or something bigger. 

Although we'll be the first to admit: Having your bsf by your side and a bowl of caramel popcorn in your lap certainly helps. 

Check out Treasure Trackers (out on digital platforms today) and start planning your epic movie night rn!

Want more spooktacular stories? 'Tis the season to check out our other autumn articles:
🕸️ Fall in love with these delish pumpkin recipes
🕸️ 7 things to add to your fall bucket list
🕸️ Here's how you should decorate your pumpkin this Halloween, based on your zodiac sign

by GL | 10/1/2024