All the Best Fall TV Episodes to Watch When You Want to Feel Super Cozy
In my opinion, fall is the best time of the year. No, it’s not just because I was born in October. The weather is neither too cold nor too warm. Fashion peaks, with oversized knit sweaters, baggy jeans, and warm, comfy shoes. Pumpkin spice lattes are everywhere. And, of course, it’s the ideal season for the coziest — and spookiest — TV marathons.
While there aren’t too many shows that take place entirely in the fall, there are tons of shows that have at least one episode featuring some of the key elements of autumn: sweaters, coffee, pumpkin decorations, colorful leaves, Halloween, Thanksgiving, apples, pie, books, blankets, flannels, and/or scarves.
So, light your cinnamon-scented candle (or plug in a festive air freshener, if you live in the dorms) and grab a blanket, because fall is in the air — and on your TV.
1. “My Friend Joanne,” Nobody Wants This (Season 1, Episode 5)
This comedy that follows the relationship between a podcaster and a rabbi brings all the fall vibes. Specifically, this episode mostly takes place at a fall retreat to Camp Haverim. The trip gives major cozy vibes as you see Joanne and Noah wearing sweaters and flannels during a weekend that goes back-and-forth between awkward and romantic.
How to watch: Netflix
2. “The Autumn of Break-ups,” How I Met Your Mother (Season 8, Episode 5)
The season is right in the title, and it focuses on the developing relationships and breakups during the season. Of course, there’s also a bit of humor in classic HIMYM fashion; Robin becomes worried about Barney when he chooses a dog to be his new wingman.
How to watch: Netflix
3. “Recall Vote,” Parks and Recreation (Season 6, Episode 7)
This episode touches on two key huge fall events: elections and Halloween. While Leslie Knope is waits for the results of her recall election, she helps members of the Parks Department set up a haunted house in City Hall.
How to watch: Peacock
4. “Carry On,” Virgin River (Season 1, Episode 1)
Everything about this show just screams fall. In the first episode, you meet Mel Monroe, who has moved to the small town, Virgin River, to start a new life. The episode starts with Mel getting her car stuck in a ditch, and being stuck in the woods among fallen leaves.
How to watch: Netflix
5. “Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace,” One Tree Hill (Season 8, Episode 9)
As One Tree Hill‘s one and only Thanksgiving episode, this one tugs at the heartstrings. Haley hosts Thanksgiving at her house, and all her friends end up coming over. Brooke struggles to impress her soon-to-be mother-in-law, Sylvia. Nathan realizes he needs to go back to college to become a certified sports agent. This episode is full of fall football and the warmth of spending time with loved ones — with a dash of tension, because it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without it.
How to watch: Hulu
6. “Kiss and Tell,” Gilmore Girls (Season 1, Episode 7)
The Autumn Festival is in full swing in Stars Hollow, making the whole town feel like a fall dreamscape. Meanwhile, Rory has her first kiss with Dean, but she doesn’t tell Lorelai until the whole town finds out and tells her *for* Rory. Plus, the people of Stars Hollow pester Luke to decorate Luke’s Diner with Thanksgiving decor.
How to watch: Netflix
7. “Homecoming,” The Vampire Diaries (Season 3, Episode 9)
It’s fall homecoming season, and the dance is in full swing, as is the plan to get rid of Klaus. Things get complicated when Rebekah begins to confide in Elena. This isn’t your typical homecoming — especially when Mystic Falls is involved. Tyler’s after-party turns into a full-blown battleground, with everyone pitted against Klaus.
How to watch: HBO Max
8. “The One with the Football,” Friends (Season 3, Episode 9)
The gang spends Thanksgiving playing an intense game of football based on Monica and Ross’ childhood version, called the Geller Bowl. Viewers get to see just how — ahem — competitive the siblings are.
How to watch: HBO Max
9. “The Twilight End Zone,” School Spirits (Season 1, Episode 5)
What screams “fall” more than a big homecoming game … and ghosts? Maddie is at the point where she might have to accept her death, but she can’t help but keep investigating for new clues — and she learns about how much the big homecoming game means to Wally and his mom, and the reason explains his death.
How to watch: Paramount+
10. “Girls,” Heartstopper (Season 1, Episode 6)
Heartstopper is known for its adorable graphics, especially the leaves blowing across the screen. School is in full swing, and cozy sweaters are the biggest fashion trend. Tara makes things Instagram-official with Darcy, and the gang tries to bring Elle and Tao closer together.
How to watch: Netflix
11. “The Treasure of Serena Madre,” Gossip Girl (Season 3, Episode 11)
No show does Thanksgiving better than Gossip Girl. This Thanksgiving episode is extra iconic, as it includes the monumental musical moment of “Whatcha Say,” sung by Jason Derulo, playing as everyone at the dinner table exposes each other’s deepest and darkest secrets, causing dramatic exits.
How to watch: HBO Max
12. “The Dark Baptism,” Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (Season 1, Episode 2)
What’s more Halloween than watching a teenage witch experience her Dark Baptism? Sabrina learns she must find a balance between her mortal life and witch life, even teaming up with the Weird Sisters for some sinister acts. She decides to hold one last hurrah as a mortal by having a Halloween-themed 16th birthday party.
How to watch: Netflix
13. “Escape from Witch Island,” Dawson’s Creek (Season 3, Episode 7)
The gang gets coerced into helping Dawson film his documentary about Witch Island, which they all travel to, and it’s just as chilling as it sounds. Not to mention, everyone is contemplating possible romantic relationships (just in time for cuffing season).
How to watch: Netflix
14. “Conversations with Dead People,” Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Season 7, Episode 7)
Buffy is on her usual hunt for vampires when she encounters a former classmate who has become one. Cassie’s ghost visits Willow to reveal a shocking prediction. Joyce attempts to communicate with Dawn from beyond but encounters … well, difficulties.
How to watch: Hulu
15. “Halloween,” Beverly Hills, 90210 (Season 2, Episode 13)
The teens dress up for a big Halloween party, and some costumes gain more attention than others. Kelly is particularly proud of her lewk and the attention it gets, until something changes her mind. Emily’s twin siblings give Brandon and Emily a real scare when something tragic happens during trick-or-treating.
How to watch: Paramount+
16. “To Riverdale and Back Again,” Riverdale (Season 1, Episode 11
Riverdale is best enjoyed in the fall. Betty is busy planning the annual homecoming dance and reunion weekend. Alice recruits everyone to help with the Jason Blossom investigation. The homecoming dance brings forth many *shocking* revelations.
How to watch: Netflix
17. “If You Don’t Woe Me by Now,” Wednesday (Season 1, Episode 7)
It’s always spooky in the world of Wednesday Addams. Uncle Fester visits to help Wednesday with her investigation while offering support. Wednesday agrees to go on a date with Tyler, and they watch a movie at the crypt. The night ends with a disturbing realization.
How to watch: Netflix
18. “Welcome to Essex,” The Sex Lives of College Girls (Season 1, Episode 1)
Nothing says “early fall” like the first day of school, and it’s the start of freshman year at the stately Essex College in Vermont. Everyone is there for different reasons, and the suitemates choose to attend a party to get to know each other and their new school.
How to watch: HBO Max
19. “Boo, Bitch,” Ginny and Georgia (Season 1, Episode 5)
Ginny is on the road to popularity despite being at a new school. Paul and Georgia start envisioning a future beyond just dates. A Halloween party is in full swing, and MANG — Ginny’s friend group — has iconic costumes on lock. Oh yeah, and Georgia’s past returns to haunt her (pun intended).
How to watch: Netflix
20. “A Fantastic Heart,” Fate: The Winx Saga (Season 1, Episode 6)
Bloom and the entire Alfea College student body fight to survive against the Burned Ones, who have infiltrated their school. The truth about Bloom and her past is revealed, but not before she risks her friends’ lives by freeing a controversial maybe-villain. FYI before you watch: This episode has a few spooky jumpscares.
How to watch: Netflix
21. “The Miracle of Thanksgiving,” Full House (Season 1, Episode 9)
What’s cozier than a wholesome episode of Full House? It’s the first Thanksgiving without Pam for the Tanner family, making Danny strive to be the best single parent for his girls. He calls in reinforcements, which quickly backfire due to snow.
How to watch: Hulu
22. “Facing Darkness Is Kinda My Thing,” Legacies (Season 2, Episode 16)
In a dark take on the “Little Red Riding Hood” tale, Hope embarks on a mission to save Josie within her subconscious. Dark Josie takes over regular Josie’s body and creates chaos at the school. Lizzie and the group come up with a plan to save her, but severe consequences loom at the end of the episode, leaving many characters’ fates in question.
How to watch: Netflix
23. “Out of the Easy,” The Originals (Season 3, Episode 7)
The Originals know how to do family gatherings, and this Thanksgiving special is no exception. The Mikaelson brothers invite some disliked familiar faces to help thwart a prophecy from coming true. Of course, it ends with violence, and Aurora goes after the one person Klaus cares about.
How to watch: Prime Video
24. “Red Queen,” The 100 (Season 5, Episode 2)
Blodreina, also known as Octavia Blake, is in full command to preserve the lives of the people in the bunker. There’s death, but there are also new alliances forming. This episode is for those who love the more macabre aspects of fall, with plenty of blood and fighting.
How to watch: Netflix
25. “Poison,” The Society (Season 1, Episode 8)
The group tries to make the most of their bizarre situation by planning a massive Thanksgiving feast for everyone. Unfortunately, it takes a dark turn when the guards begin abusing their power. Elle tries to save everyone from a potentially life-threatening situation.
How to watch: Netflix
26. “Trick or Treat, Freak,” Stranger Things (Season 2, Episode 2)
It’s Halloween night, and Eleven wants to participate despite the target on her back, put there by government agents. The boys dress up as Ghostbusters for trick-or-treating, and Jonathan and Nancy’s relationship begins to develop at a Halloween party.
How to watch: Netflix
27. “Deepest, Darkest Secret,” I Am Not Okay with This (Season 1, Episode 7)
Syd agrees to go to the Homecoming dance with Dina. She learns the truth about her father and vows not to become like him, but the night still ends in disaster.
How to watch: Netflix
28. “Motel California,” Teen Wolf (Season 3, Episode 6)
Scott and his friends find themselves stuck at a motel, and tension builds within the group. People start suspecting that one of them could be the killer’s next target. Spooky!
How to watch: Hulu
29. “Thanksgiving,” Glee (Season 4, Episode 8)
Who could forget the campy musical moment of “Let’s Have a Kiki/Turkey Lurkey Time”? The OG Glee Club returns to McKinley for Thanksgiving, while Kurt and Rachel host their own celebration in New York.
How to watch: Hulu
30. “One of Us Is Dead,” One of Us Is Lying (Season 1, Episode 8)
It’s Halloween night, and the murder club is dressed up for a hunt. They attend Jake’s Halloween party to get closer to the truth. In the end, they uncover Simon’s killer, but things take an unexpected turn.
How to watch: Peacock
31. “Homecoming,” Friday Night Lights (Season 1, Episode 7)
Fall football is in full swing at Dillon High School, and it’s homecoming week. The team prepares for their big game, and the pressures of football recruitment are more apparent than ever.
How to watch: Prime Video
32. “Forbidden Fruit,” American Horror Story (Season 8, Episode 3)
With “horror” in the show’s title, you know it’s a great choice for a spooky-season watch. Ms. Mead searches for her self-identity, leading to a strangely terrifying encounter that reveals Mallory and Michael’s secrets.
How to watch: Hulu
33. “Pilot,” Felicity (Season 1, Episode 1)
It’s the beginning of a new school year, and Felicity is starting her first year at college. She drops everything and follows her high school crush to college at the University of New York — and the fall vibes in the city are immaculate.
How to watch: Hulu
34. “Six Thanksgivings,” This Is Us Season 3, Episode 8
This time of year, it’s all about family. The Pearsons experience a chaotic and unusual Thanksgiving dinner, while flashbacks to the past show Jack, Rebecca, and the Big Three celebrating Thanksgiving with Miguel. As with every episode of This Is Us, emotions run high.
How to watch: Hulu
35. “Pilot,” Pretty Little Liars (Season 1, Episode 1)
Creepy storylines and a quaint Northeastern town — this is fall at its finest. Viewers learn something happened to Alison DiLaurentis during a group sleepover, and her disappearance remains a mystery a year later.
How to watch: HBO Max
36. “Two Storms,” The Haunting of Hill House Season 1, Episode 6
A funeral reunion takes a terrifying turn. Hugh faces his estranged children, and the parents separately search for Nellie. It’s eerie vibes all around.
How to watch: Netflix
37. “Hello Darkness,” Only Murders in the Building (Season 2, Episode 8)
Murder mysteries make for perfect late-night viewing in the fall. Here, the podcasting trio attempts to save someone they care about from the killer during — wait for it — a blackout.
How to watch: Hulu
38. “Thanksgiving,” New Girl (Season 1, Episode 7)
Jess wants to host a Thanksgiving dinner and invite a specific person she likes, but the boys just want a classic Thanksgiving. Quirky hijinks ensue.
How to watch: Hulu
39. “Winner Winner Turkey Dinner,” Modern Family (Season 9, Episode 7)
Jay takes pride in his entire family for everything they have been through and accomplished. However, everyone seems to be hiding something.
How to watch: Hulu
40. “A Halloween Hassle at Dracula’s Castle,” The New Scooby-Doo Mysteries (Season 1, Episode 8)
Shopping for old costumes leads the gang to win tickets to an old castle, where they discover that the party guests are actually monsters, and they may have to save them.
How to watch: Prime Video
41. “New Haunts,” The Walking Dead (Season 11, Episode 10)
It’s Halloween time, with various fall festivities like mazes and carnivals. But the fun is halted when Carol notices Ezekiel’s worsening condition, and Mercer leads military training.
How to watch: Netflix
42. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Sam Winchester,” Supernatural Season 4, Episode 7
Halloween is approaching, and so is death. The brothers begin solving a mystery that leads them to a witch who is sacrificing her victims.
How to watch: Netflix
43. “Left Behind,” The Last of Us (Season 1, Episode 7)
This one mixes spooky with cozy — aka, two iconic fall vibes in one. Through flashbacks, fans watch Ellie experience a night in an abandoned mall where she made unforgettable memories with her best friend, Riley. This episode is scary, but it offers moments of comfort when Ellie and Riley are just at the mall, being kids.
How to watch: HBO Max
44. “… made someone jealous,” Never Have I Ever (Season 3, Episode 4)
Following Devi’s emotional breakup with Paxton in episode 3, the top of episode 4 shows a brief montage of her getting over the split, until the time jump lands in October, with Devi in her junior year of high school. Of course, there are no *real* seasons in Southern California, but the time of year is marked by pumpkin decorations and cute sweaters.
How to watch: Netflix
45. “The Cold Turkey” The O.C. (Season 4, Episode 3)
Volchok returns as Ryan’s quest to find him continues. Summer is grieving and rediscovering herself as she returns home from Brown. Thanksgiving at the Cohens’ house becomes a lot more crowded.
How to watch: Hulu
46. “Halloween,” The Office (Season 2, Episode 5)
The office Halloween party is disrupted when it becomes clear that Michael has to fire someone. Michael struggles to choose who to let go, leaving everyone scared — and not in the fun way.
How to watch: Peacock
47. “Circus of Dread,” Halloween Baking Championship (Season 4, Episode 5)
Who doesn’t love autumn-themed sweet treats? In this episode, bakers compete in a Halloween-themed baking contest, with tarot cards as their inspiration.
How to watch: HBO Max
48. “Halloween Blues,” Scream Queens (Season 2, Episode 4)
It’s Chanel-O-Ween, and Chanel is fully committed to her bit. However, a serial killer is on the loose, and as the Halloween party begins, hospitals start filling up.
How to watch: Hulu
49. “The Next Episode,” Euphoria (Season 1, Episode 6)
This Halloween party is filled with drama … and fantastic costumes. Rue is concerned about Jules, Kat pushes Ethan away, Nate seeks to change his life, and Maddy is his solution. Of course, Cassie steals the show at the party.
How to watch: Max
50. “Auntsgiving,” Black-ish Season 3, Episode 7
Auntie A.V. pays a surprise visit for Thanksgiving, much to Ruby’s displeasure. Bow and Dre embark on their final vacation before the baby arrives.
How to watch: Hulu
51. “Chick Flick,” Charmed (Season 2, Episode 17)
The Halliwell sisters face a demon that brings horror film characters to life and wants to kill them. You know, typical Halloween shenanigans.
How to watch: Prime Video
52. “Turkey in the Straw: Parts 1 and 2,” Alf (Season 3, Episode 7 and 8)
If you never thought a cat-eating alien could tug at your heartstrings, you have to see these two episodes. Sure, they feature Alf’s typical troublemaking antics (who eats a raw turkey out of the fridge the night before Thanksgiving?), but the story also includes multiple storylines emphasizing the importance of charity and caring for others during the holiday season.
How to watch: Prime Video
53. “Treehouse of Horror,” The Simpsons (Season 2, Episode 3)
Is it really Halloween without a special trick from America’s favorite cartoon family? While the series may air a new Treehouse of Horror every year, the first one is still a classic with its take on possessed homes like those in Poltergeist/The Amityville Horror, a Twilight Zone parody, and arguably the all-time greatest adaptation of Poe’s “The Raven.”
How to watch: Disney +
54. “Now We’re Not Cooking With Gas,” Bob’s Burgers (Season 10, Episode 8)
It’s hard to choose one of the show’s Turkey Day specials over the others, but seeing a dedicated chef do anything to cook his prized bird after his gas is shut off on Thanksgiving day is inspiring. The episode just might give you the hope you need to keep going when you face your own setbacks this holiday season.
How to watch: Hulu
