44 Best Halloween Songs for Kids: Spooky Fun for Little Ghouls

Imaginative melodies encourage movement, counting skills, and festive celebrations.

By Medha deb
Created on

44 Best Halloween Songs for Kids: A Spook-tacular Playlist

Halloween is the perfect time for kids to delight in all things spooky, silly, and just a little bit scary (in a fun way!). From classroom sing-alongs to backyard parties, the right music sets the mood for an unforgettable October 31st. Our handpicked collection of Halloween songs for kids brings together the best playful, not-too-frightening tunes—whether you’re hunting for upbeat dance numbers, creative counting rhymes, or updated takes on classic favorites. Read on for the ultimate child-approved Halloween playlist filled with laughs, costume inspiration, and loads of ghoulishly good times!

Why Kids Love Halloween Music

Music is the magic ingredient that transforms any Halloween event. The right songs can:

  • Get kids up and dancing off their pre-trick-or-treat jitters
  • Encourage creativity through movement, costumes, and imagination
  • Teach counting, rhythm, and vocabulary through catchy refrains
  • Set a fun, festive atmosphere for school, home, or neighborhood parties

Whether you want not-so-scary tunes for toddlers or just the right level of silly spookiness for older kids, these Halloween songs guarantee plenty of giggles and dance moves for every ghost and goblin in your crew.

Classic Halloween Sing-Alongs for Kids

Some Halloween songs have been beloved for generations, captivating little listeners with playful lyrics and simple melodies. Here are a few must-have classics:

  • “Five Little Pumpkins”
    A perennial favorite, this counting rhyme brings spooky characters and silly fun to life. Kids love joining in with fingerplay as they follow the pumpkins sitting on a gate before the wind sweeps them away.
    Tip: Add props or draw pumpkin faces for extra engagement!
  • “Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett
    It’s not Halloween without the Monster Mash! This goofy, groovy classic is a must-listen at any party and has inspired countless monster dance-offs.
  • “Purple People Eater” by Sheb Wooley
    With its wacky lyrics and catchy chorus, this silly song about a one-eyed, one-horned creature is always a hit for audiences of all ages.
  • “The Addams Family Theme”
    Snap along with the world’s spookiest family; the instantly recognizable tune is great for sing-alongs and encouraging imagination.
  • “Ghostbusters”
    Who you gonna call for a sing-along? Kids adore chanting along to this classic, especially if you join in with spooky sound effects and dance moves.
  • “Spooky, Spooky Halloween”
    A fun, gentle rhyme that sings about all the delightful sights, sounds, and costumes you’ll see on Halloween night.

Modern Kid-Friendly Halloween Tunes

Modern children’s artists have crafted a new set of playful, inclusive, and interactive songs tailored for today’s little monsters. Try these fresh favorites:

  • “Skeletone” by Caspar Babypants
    Upbeat and totally kid-approved, this skeleton-inspired tune helps little ones dance out their Halloween excitement.
  • “Ghost In My House” by Jumpin’ Jamie
    A giggle-inducing melody about a not-so-scary ghost that’s perfect for reluctant trick-or-treaters.
  • “Costume Party” by The Pop Ups
    Celebrate dressing up with this bouncy, creative song that encourages imagination and self-expression.
  • “Bumps in the Night” by KB Whirly
    Shaky and shivery fun that introduces classic Halloween creatures in the silliest way possible.
  • “Witch Doctor” by David Seville
    You know the chorus: “Ooh Eeh Ooh Ah Ah Ting Tang Walla Walla Bing Bang!” Irresistible for sing-alongs, especially if you add some silly voices.
  • “She Writes Frankenstein” by Mr. Singer and the Sharp Cookies
    A quirky, creative song that gives a new twist to spooky storytelling.
  • “Ain’t No Party Like Halloween” by Secret Agent 23 Skidoo
    This energetic, hip-hop-inspired tune makes a perfect addition to any dance playlist.

Not-So-Scary Counting Songs

Rhythmic, repetitive counting songs help with early math skills while adding a playful twist to story time. These are a hit in classrooms and at home:

  • “Five Little Pumpkins”
    Not just a classic; it’s an engaging way for little ones to practice counting backward and identifying Halloween icons.
  • “Ten Little Monsters”
    Count adorable monsters as they scurry, giggle, and hide—perfect for groups and circle time.
  • “Five Creepy Spiders”
    A cute fingerplay song featuring spiders climbing up and down the wall, helping kids overcome their fears while learning numbers.

Dance-Along, Move-Along Halloween Songs

Kids don’t just want to listen—they want to move! Dance-along songs encourage participation and active fun. Here are some top picks:

  • “Halloween Is Here”
    Each verse invites a new movement: flying like bats, crawling like spiders, stomping like monsters, and more. Add costumes or props for extra engagement!
  • “Knock Knock, Trick or Treat?”
    A playful song where each verse introduces a new costume and associated movement (like tiptoeing for ballerinas, stomping for monsters, or swinging swords for pirates).
  • “Monster Boogie” by Laurie Berkner
    Kids can be the monster with this dance-ready tune, showing off their best silly moves.
  • “Little Ghost” by The Okee Dokee Brothers
    Gentle and upbeat, the song encourages swaying, floating, and playful ghost impressions.

TV & Movie Halloween Music Adapted for Kids

  • “The Munsters Theme”
    Introduce kids to classic monster tunes with this instantly catchy instrumental from the legendary TV show.
  • “This Is Halloween” (from “The Nightmare Before Christmas”)
    A lively, sing-along favorite, especially for older kids who love movie musicals.

Retro and Funny Tunes That Delight Kids

  • “Dinner With Drac” by John Zacherle
    Goofy, charming, and perfect for a not-so-scary playlist, this song gets kids (and parents) giggling.
  • “Witch Doctor” by David Seville
    Hilarious and quick-paced, children love the silly lyrics and repeating playful sounds.

Playlist Table: Must-Have Halloween Songs for Kids

Song TitleArtist / SourceStyle / Activity
Monster MashBobby “Boris” PickettSing-along, Dancing
Five Little PumpkinsTraditionalCounting, Fingerplay
Purple People EaterSheb WooleySing-along, Retro
SkeletoneCaspar BabypantsDancing, Movement
Costume PartyThe Pop UpsSing-along, Dress-up
GhostbustersAndrew & PollyDancing, Movie theme
Bumps in the NightKB WhirlyUpbeat, Movement
Little GhostThe Okee Dokee BrothersGentle, Movement
The Addams Family ThemeTV Show ThemeClapping, Snap-along

Tips for Using Halloween Songs with Kids

  • Create a Playlist: Build your own mix ahead of time so you’re ready for classroom activities, car rides, or parties.
  • Encourage Dress-Up: Sing songs that mention costumes, and invite kids to act out lyrics with simple props or costumes.
  • Incorporate Dance and Movement: Use songs that encourage stomping, tiptoeing, floating, or waving arms. This helps kids burn energy and get into the Halloween spirit.
  • Use Props: Pumpkins, plastic spiders, or even scarves can bring lyrics to life and make sing-alongs extra memorable.
  • Download Lyric Sheets: For group activities or performances, print or handwrite the lyrics for everyone to follow along.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best Halloween songs for toddlers?

Five Little Pumpkins, Halloween Is Here, and Five Creepy Spiders are ideal for toddlers thanks to their simple, repetitive lyrics and playful fingerplay activities.

Are there any Halloween songs that help with learning?

Counting songs like Ten Little Monsters and Five Little Pumpkins reinforce early math and listening skills, while dance-along songs encourage physical coordination and following directions.

What’s a good not-scary Halloween playlist for a classroom or younger kids?

Stick to cheerful tunes like Monster Boogie, Purple People Eater, Skeletone, and Costume Party, which are designed to be silly and playful—never creepy or frightening.

How do I make a Halloween party more fun with music?

  • Start with sing-alongs and dancing to warm-up the group
  • Mix in movement-based songs to get kids acting like monsters, witches, or ghosts
  • Add a short costume or dance contest to encourage participation
  • End with gentle songs as kids wind down (great after trick-or-treating!)

What if my child is scared of certain Halloween songs?

Skip anything that seems too spooky and stick to gentle, upbeat tunes. Let children choose the songs that make them feel happy, and avoid those with scary sound effects or themes.

Make Your Halloween Unforgettable with Music!

No matter how you celebrate, this ultimate list of Halloween songs for kids will set the stage for laughter, movement, and happy memories. Create your playlist, invite the little ghosts and goblins, and celebrate the magic of Halloween—one song at a time!

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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