All the Best Fall TV Episodes to Watch on a Cozy Night In
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. “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
2. “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
3. “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: Max
4. “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: Max
5. “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+
6. “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
7. “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: Max
8. “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
9. “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: Hulu
10. “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
11. “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+
12. “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
13. “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
14. “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: Max
15. “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
16. “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
17. “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
18. “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
19. “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
20. “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
21. “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
22. “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
23. “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
24. “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
25. “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
26. “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
27. “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: Netflix
28. “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
29. “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
30. “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
31. “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: Max
32. “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
33. “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
34. “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
35. “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
36. “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: Max
37. “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
38. “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
39. “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: Max
40. “… 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
41. “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
42. “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
43. “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: Max
44. “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
45. “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
46. “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
47. “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
48. “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: Amazon Prime
49. “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 +
50. “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
