Every TV Show With a Halloween Episode in 2025
For those TV fans who want some new Halloween content, Tracker, Shifting Gears and NCIS are just some of the shows delivering tricks — and treats — this year.
CBS has several Halloween-themed episodes planned with Ghosts, NCIS, Elsbeth and Tracker. Us Weekly had the exclusive first look at Elsbeth’s themed episode, which showed Carrie Preston’s title character going head to head with Sharon (Annaleigh Ashford), who is described as a murderous suburban housewife.
“Elsbeth must separate trick from treat in Sleepy Hollow when a rivalry reaches a ghoulish climax on Halloween night after a suburban housewife butts heads with a new neighbor,” reads the official description. “Meanwhile, Captain Wagner makes a frightening discovery about his daughter.” Yes — we’re diving into all the shows that are bringing a Halloween-themed episode in 2025. If you’re planning your spooky-watching list, you’re in the right place. From big names like Tim Allen and Justin Hartley to underrated gems, we’ve got you covered.
Why 2025’s TV Line-up Feels Extra Halloween-y
You may have noticed: networks and streaming services are leaning into Halloween harder this year. There’s an increase in specials, themed episodes, haunted house settings, and even competition shows with spooky twists. For example, the site HalloweenDailyNews notes there’s “more Halloween-themed programming coming to TV in October (and throughout the year)”.
So if you’re wondering why there seems to be a flood of Halloween-episodes, that’s why.
What Counts as a “Halloween Episode”?
Before we list them: let’s define what we mean. A “Halloween episode” in 2025 means:
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The episode is explicitly themed around Halloween (costumes, trick-or-treating, haunted setting or spooky storyline).
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It airs in the 2025 calendar year (or the season that is labeled 2025).
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It belongs to a regular series (not just a random one-off special), though we’ll note any special exceptions.
Using this lens helps avoid confusion with unrelated episodes.
Major Shows Confirmed to Have Halloween Episodes in 2025
Now, let’s get into some of the standout shows. Note: specifics (episode titles, air dates) may be limited if the networks haven’t released full details yet — but these are shows that are confirmed to be part of the 2025 Halloween-episode wave.
“Shifting Gears” (Tim Allen) – The Big Surprise
While full details remain under wraps, one of the high-profile mentions of a Halloween episode in 2025 comes from the headline: “Every TV Show With Halloween Episodes, From Tim Allen’s ‘Shifting Gears’ to…”
If you’re a fan of Tim Allen and his characteristic comedy, this episode needs to go on your schedule. Expect the usual riffs on family, vehicles (since “Shifting Gears” hints at cars/auto themes) with a Halloween twist.
“Tracker” (Justin Hartley) – The Seasonal Entry
Similarly, the listing mentions Justin Hartley’s “Tracker” as one of the shows with a Halloween episode in 2025. Again, details are still emerging, but given Hartley’s dramatic background, this one may lean a bit more suspense than pure comedy.
Other Noteworthy Mentions & Thematic Episodes
It’s not just those two. Let’s look at other shows that either have Halloween-themed episodes or specials that act like Halloween episodes in 2025.
Classic Sitcom Halloween Episodes – Still Going Strong
Websites like ScaryMommy highlight that even for older shows, the tradition of Halloween episodes continues strong. For example:
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“Halloween” in Modern Family Season 2.
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“Greg Pikitis” in Parks & Recreation.
While these are not new 2025 premieres, they set the tone and suggest that even current shows will lean into this format.
Animation & Anthology Series
Animation and anthology shows have always embraced Halloween. The series The Simpsons and its “Treehouse of Horror” episodes are iconic.
Though not always explicitly announced for 2025, given the ongoing production and cultural weight, it’s reasonable to expect similar episodes this year.
Streaming Platforms Join the Fray
Platforms are ramping up. For example, a programming guide notes all the “Halloween specials, series celebrations … airing and streaming in October.”
So even if a network show doesn’t advertise “Halloween episode,” streaming releases or themed specials often fill the gap.
How to Build Your 2025 Halloween Episode Watch-List
Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:
Step 1 – Mark Your Calendar
Check the premiere dates of your favorite shows, especially in late October. Episodes with Halloween themes tend to drop around that window.
Step 2 – Filter by Genre
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Comedy? Sitcoms are likely to have fun, light-hearted Halloween episodes.
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Drama/suspense? Shows like “Tracker” may lean into chills.
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Animation/Kids? These will often have costume fun, spooky but not heavy horror.
Step 3 – Platform Check
Don’t forget streaming platforms. Some episodes may premiere there, or streaming services will carry them shortly after broadcast.
Step 4 – Theme Your Snacks & Setup
You’ll get more enjoyment if you set the mood: dim the lights, snack accordingly (popcorn with candy, spooky décor), maybe do a quick costume yourself.
Why We Love Halloween Episodes (And Why 2025 Is No Exception)
What makes a Halloween episode special? And why is this year worth paying attention to?
Familiar Characters + A Holiday Twist
We already know the characters. When you throw in Halloween — costumes, haunted houses, tricks, treats — you get fresh, fun dynamics.
It’s a Mini-Event
Halloween episodes often feel like an event: out of the ordinary, a break from the regular arc. That makes them shareable, talkable — perfect for social-media buzz.
The Year 2025 Adds Extra Layers
Because networks and streamers are leaning harder into holiday melodramas and specials in 2025, we’re seeing a richer variety: horror-tinted episodes, competition shows, anthologies. The “more programming” angle is noted by sources.
Potential Hidden Gems & Underrated Picks
Besides the big names (Tim Allen, Justin Hartley), keep your eyes peeled for…
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Shows that haven’t advertised a Halloween episode explicitly but might surprise.
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Streaming-only episodes or special drops that may not have the typical promotion.
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Kids shows or animation that treat Halloween lightly but with fun production value.
What to Expect from the Episodes (Storylines, Tropes & Trends)
Here’s what you’ll likely see in 2025’s Halloween episodes:
Big Costume Moments
Characters dressing up, playing roles, swapping identities — expect a lot of this.
Example: In older sitcoms, costumes drive the plot.
Haunted House or Spooky Setting
Whether metaphorical (a scary metaphor) or literal (ghosts, haunted locations), expect the setting to go beyond normal.
Trick-or-Treat Stakes
Candy, pranks, surprises. Even dramas might use Halloween as a backdrop for secrets or reveals.
Social Media-Friendly Moments
Instagram-worthy costumes, surprise cameos, meta references. These episodes often aim for shareability.
Tips for Viewing – Maximize Your Halloween Episode Experience
Want to get the most out of your viewing? Here are some pro-tips:
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Watch in a comfortable setting: cozy couch, dim lights, maybe a blanket.
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Invite friends: some episodes are funnier or scarier with company.
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Pause spoilers: if a show hasn’t dropped the episode yet, avoid social media until you’ve watched.
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After-party discussion: talk about the best costumes, surprise moments, how the episode used the holiday.
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Mix genres: go from light comedy to suspense drama in one night for variety.
Frequently Asked Questions (Before the FAQs Section)
Here are quick answers to some questions you might have:
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Will every show in 2025 have a Halloween episode? No — but more than usual are doing so, thanks to the holiday’s pull.
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Are streaming-only shows getting into Halloween episodes? Yes — the streaming landscape is part of the surge.
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Do kids and adult shows handle Halloween the same way? Not at all. Kids ones lean fun/costume-based; adult shows might go darker or more suspenseful.
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Is it safe to assume “Shifting Gears” & “Tracker” have Halloween episodes? From available mention, yes — but keep an eye out for confirmation of date and title.
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Should I plan a marathon? Absolutely. Halloween-episode marathons are one of the best tricks (or treats) of the season.
Conclusion
So there you have it: 2025 is shaping up to be a great year for Halloween episode lovers. With major shows like Shifting Gears and Tracker bringing in the holiday theme, along with a strong wave of streaming and network programming, you’ve got plenty to pick from. Whether you’re into comedy, suspense, animation, or family-friendly fare, mark your calendars, prepare your snacks, and settle in for some spooky fun. The trick is planning ahead — the treat is pure entertainment.
