Over 100 Spooky Movies Are Playing at Bay Area Theaters in October — and Here They Are

As October unfolds, Bay Area film venues are embracing the season with an expansive lineup of horror and horror-adjacent movies, totaling more than a hundred screenings. This diverse programming spans from cult classics to international gems, catering to both die-hard horror enthusiasts and casual viewers seeking to indulge in spooky atmospheres.

Independent theaters across the region are hosting a variety of themed events, including movie marathons, film festivals, and interactive screenings that integrate live performances. Notably, the historic Balboa Theater is spotlighting the International Vampire Film Festival, an event showcasing vampire cinema from multiple decades and cultures, accompanied by a costume contest and a night of locally produced short films.

Audience members can also experience unique cinematic evenings such as the Alamo Drafthouse’s blood-soaked movie marathons, where the film lineup remains a secret until the screening, amplifying the suspense. These events, along with a seven-film program presented by the Super Shangri-La Show, which blends elements of horror, comedy, and thrill in short dance films by Bay Area artists, offer fresh takes on genre storytelling.

For those interested in combining film with live entertainment, the Roxie Theater’s showing of “The Craft” incorporates a drag performance and a pre-show happy hour, providing a lively social setting. Similarly, SFJAZZ presents a rare silent film screening of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” at Grace Cathedral, featuring live organ accompaniment on the venue’s historic 7,500-pipe instrument, creating an immersive auditory and visual experience.

Adding an extraordinary dimension to the season, an exclusive overnight event at the former Woodsboro High School filming location for Wes Craven’s “Scream” offers fans the chance to spend a night locked inside the building. This once-in-a-lifetime experience marks the film’s 30th anniversary, with organizers emphasizing its unique nature and advising participants on its intense atmosphere.

Families seeking age-appropriate options can find screenings of films like “Jaws” and “Hocus Pocus” through the Roxie’s Floating Features series, which presents movies aboard boats cruising the San Francisco Bay. While these events come with a premium ticket price, they combine cinematic enjoyment with a memorable setting.

The month’s schedule also features multiple John Carpenter classics beyond the ubiquitous “Halloween” (1978), including the often-overlooked “Prince of Darkness,” screened at Opera Plaza. The 1997 sci-fi horror “Event Horizon” receives notable attention with two separate showings, reflecting its growing cult status. Additionally, “Cabin in the Woods” continues to engage audiences with its blend of horror and satire.

For viewers seeking a less intense horror experience, venues like New Parkway are programming films such as “What We Do in the Shadows” and “Get Out,” balancing scares with humor and social commentary. The Vogue Theater’s screening of “Ed Wood” further diversifies offerings for audiences interested in genre adjacent narratives.

The calendar extends into early November, allowing fans to maintain the Halloween spirit beyond October 31. While the traditional midnight movie screenings are currently limited on Halloween night, theaters provide alternative ways for attendees to immerse themselves in spooky entertainment.

With many screenings anticipating high demand, early ticket purchase is advisable. This bustling slate of events underlines the Bay Area’s vibrant horror film culture and its commitment to catering to a wide spectrum of tastes during the annual celebration of all things eerie and thrilling.