From haunted houses and witches to creepy castles and deadly Halloween parties, these mystery TV episodes are just the thing for a spooky night in.
Halloween doesn't have to mean watching horror movies filled with jump scares and terrifying monsters. Sometimes, the perfect Halloween entertainment is a clever murder mystery with a little supernatural atmosphere, a suspicious character or two, and a detective who refuses to believe everything is as it seems.
For cozy mystery fans, Halloween offers the perfect excuse to revisit favorite television detectives. After all, what's better than curling up with a warm drink, a bowl of Halloween candy, and a mystery involving witches, ghosts, vampires, or an especially suspicious costume party?
We've gathered 13 mystery TV show episodes that are perfect for Halloween, featuring everything from classic British murder mysteries to modern detective comedies. Some take place on Halloween itself, while others feature supernatural legends, occult societies, or spooky settings that make them ideal October viewing.
Whether you love Murder, She Wrote, Agatha Raisin, Psych, Monk, or Agatha Christie's Poirot, there's something here to add to your Halloween mystery marathon.
Let's count down our 13 picks!
13 Mystery Show Episodes Perfect for Halloween
13. Poker Face — “The Orpheus Syndrome” (Season 1, Episode 8)
12. Psych — “Scary Sherry: Bianca’s Toast” (Season 1, Episode 15)
11. Father Brown — “The Mask of the Demon” (Season 4, Episode 1)
10. Murder, She Wrote — “The Witch’s Curse” (Season 8, Episode 12)
9. High Potential — “Chasing Ghosts” (Season 2, Episode 6)
8. Midsomer Murders — “The Magician’s Nephew” (Series 11, Episode 5)
7. Pushing Daisies — “Girth” (Season 1, Episode 5)
6. Castle — “Vampire Weekend” (Season 2, Episode 6)
5. Agatha Raisin — “The Witch of Wyckhadden” (Season 1, Episode 7)
4. Murdoch Mysteries — “Sir. Sir? Sir!!!” (Season 12, Episode 6)
3. Elsbeth — “Devil’s Night” (Season 2, Episode 3)
2. Monk — “Mr. Monk Goes Home Again” (Season 4, Episode 2)
1. Agatha Christie’s Poirot — “Hallowe’en Party” (Season 12, Episode 2)
More details below!
13. Poker Face — "The Orpheus Syndrome" (Season 1, Episode 8)
Poker Face follows Charlie Cale (played by Natasha Lyonne), a woman with an extraordinary ability to recognize when someone is lying. Traveling across America and frequently finding herself in the middle of suspicious deaths, Charlie uses her unusual gift, sharp instincts, and determination to uncover the truth. Created by Rian Johnson, the series puts a modern spin on the classic television detective format.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "The Orpheus Syndrome," Charlie enters the fascinating and creepy world of practical movie special effects. She befriends Arthur Liptin (played by Nick Nolte), an artist whose career creating cinematic monsters and illusions is overshadowed by a tragic accident from his past.
As Arthur revisits an old project, disturbing memories resurface, and Charlie becomes entangled in a deadly new mystery. The episode features elaborate monster creations, eerie workshops, and a story that blurs the atmosphere of horror filmmaking with a real-life crime.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: If you love classic monster movies, behind-the-scenes Hollywood mysteries, or practical horror effects, this episode delivers a wonderfully spooky setting without abandoning the clever detective storytelling that makes Poker Face so entertaining.
Where to Watch: Peacock. Also available for digital purchase through select retailers.
12. Psych — "Scary Sherry: Bianca's Toast" (Season 1, Episode 15)
Psych follows Shawn Spencer (played by James Roday Rodriguez), a highly observant amateur detective who convinces the Santa Barbara Police Department that he's psychic. In reality, Shawn relies on his remarkable attention to detail and deductive abilities, usually with help from his best friend Burton "Gus" Guster (played by Dulé Hill). Together, they solve crimes while delivering plenty of jokes, pop-culture references, and ridiculous antics.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: "Scary Sherry: Bianca's Toast" takes Shawn and Gus into the world of sorority houses, urban legends, and supposedly haunted locations.
When a young woman dies under mysterious circumstances, the investigation becomes tangled with the terrifying legend of Scary Sherry, a woman whose story has frightened generations of local students. Shawn and Gus must determine whether the frightening events are connected to the legend or whether someone very much alive is responsible.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: This episode has everything you'd want from a Halloween-themed mystery: a creepy urban legend, a supposedly haunted building, nervous college students, and plenty of hilarious reactions from Shawn and Gus. It's a particularly fun choice for viewers who want spooky entertainment without taking the scares too seriously.
Where to Watch: Peacock and Amazon Prime Video.
Psyched for more Halloween Psych? Check out our list of 13 Best Psych Episodes to Watch for Halloween: Ghosts, Vampires, and Murder
11. Father Brown — "The Mask of the Demon" (Season 4, Episode 1)
Based on the beloved detective character created by G. K. Chesterton, Father Brown follows a Catholic priest (played by Mark Williams) who solves murders in the picturesque English countryside during the 1950s. His understanding of human nature, compassionate approach, and ability to recognize hidden motives often help him uncover secrets that the police overlook.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: "The Mask of the Demon" brings a touch of gothic horror to Father Brown's usually peaceful surroundings when a film crew arrives to shoot a horror movie.
The production promises plenty of theatrical scares, but when a real death disrupts filming, Father Brown must investigate the people involved in the movie. With sinister costumes, unsettling imagery, and tensions behind the scenes, the line between fictional horror and actual danger becomes increasingly uncomfortable.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: A murder mystery set during the production of a horror film feels tailor-made for October. The vintage setting, theatrical atmosphere, and Father Brown's gentle but persistent detective work make this a satisfying combination of classic mystery and spooky entertainment.
Where to Watch: BritBox and BritBox through Amazon Prime Video Channels.
10. Murder, She Wrote — "The Witch's Curse" (Season 8, Episode 12)
Few television detectives are as beloved by cozy mystery fans as Jessica Fletcher (played by Angela Lansbury). In Murder, She Wrote, the successful mystery novelist frequently finds herself investigating suspicious deaths, whether she's at home in the charming coastal community of Cabot Cove, Maine, or traveling around the world.
Jessica's intelligence, curiosity, and understanding of people make her a formidable amateur sleuth, even when the local authorities would prefer she stay out of their investigations.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "The Witch's Curse," Cabot Cove is preparing a community theatrical production involving a woman accused of witchcraft.
When newcomer Mariah Osborn (played by Mary Crosby) arrives and takes on the role of a witch in the play, some residents begin to believe she possesses supernatural powers. Strange events and a suspicious death only intensify the rumors.
While frightened townspeople are quick to blame Mariah, Jessica isn't convinced that witchcraft has anything to do with the crimes. Instead, she begins investigating the very human secrets hiding behind the accusations.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: Witchcraft accusations, small-town superstitions, and a murder in Cabot Cove? It's a wonderfully atmospheric choice for a cozy Halloween evening. And, of course, Jessica Fletcher is exactly the person you'd want around when everyone else starts believing in curses.
Where to Watch: Digital purchase through Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. A subscription streaming option for this episode could not be confirmed.
Want even more Murder, She Wrote with a Halloween vibe? Check out our list of the Best “Murder, She Wrote” Episodes for Halloween!
9. High Potential — "Chasing Ghosts" (Season 2, Episode 6)
High Potential stars Kaitlin Olson as Morgan Gillory, a single mother with an exceptionally high IQ and a remarkable talent for noticing details that others miss. After her abilities attract the attention of the Los Angeles Police Department, Morgan begins working as a consultant alongside Detective Adam Karadec (played by Daniel Sunjata).
Her unconventional methods and colorful personality sometimes clash with traditional police procedures, but her extraordinary problem-solving skills make her an invaluable investigator.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Chasing Ghosts," Halloween is approaching when the team investigates the death of a wealthy lawyer inside a Victorian mansion rumored to be haunted.
The imposing old house, its ghostly reputation, and the circumstances surrounding the death create a particularly eerie investigation. Meanwhile, Captain Nick Wagner (played by Steve Howey) demonstrates some unexpected abilities, adding another entertaining element to the case.
Morgan must sort through the unsettling atmosphere and suspicious circumstances to determine what really happened inside the mansion.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: Haunted Victorian houses are practically made for Halloween mysteries. Add Morgan's brilliant deductions, her entertaining partnership with Karadec, and a murder that seems surrounded by supernatural possibilities, and you've got an excellent October watch.
Where to Watch: Hulu and ABC with applicable access.
8. Midsomer Murders — "The Magician's Nephew" (Series 11, Episode 5)
Midsomer Murders follows detectives investigating an astonishing number of murders in the beautiful but surprisingly dangerous villages of the fictional English county of Midsomer.
During this era of the series, DCI Tom Barnaby (played by John Nettles) and DS Ben Jones (played by Jason Hughes) investigate crimes involving eccentric villagers, complicated relationships, and secrets hidden beneath the countryside's picturesque appearance.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: "The Magician's Nephew" begins when a magician's assistant dies during a performance. What initially appears to be a bizarre accident becomes a murder investigation involving a rare poison.
Barnaby and Jones soon discover connections to the Temple of Thoth, an occult group whose members have become entangled in longstanding rivalries and disputes over an ancient book.
With secretive gatherings, unusual beliefs, and the possibility that someone is using occult traditions to conceal deadly motives, the detectives have a particularly strange case to unravel.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: This episode offers an irresistible combination of English village mystery, stage magic, occult societies, and sinister secrets. If your ideal Halloween viewing involves atmospheric British mysteries rather than outright horror, this one belongs on your list.
Where to Watch: Acorn TV, including Acorn TV through Amazon Prime Video Channels.
7. Pushing Daisies — "Girth" (Season 1, Episode 5)
Pushing Daisies is a whimsical fantasy mystery series centered on Ned (played by Lee Pace), a pie-maker with an extraordinary supernatural ability: he can bring dead people back to life with a touch. However, his gift comes with strict and potentially devastating consequences.
Ned uses this power to help private investigator Emerson Cod (played by Chi McBride) solve murders. He's also reunited with his childhood sweetheart, Charlotte "Chuck" Charles (played by Anna Friel), whom he has brought back to life but can never touch again.
With its storybook visuals, eccentric characters, and dark humor, Pushing Daisies is unlike almost any other mystery series.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Girth," Ned and Emerson investigate a series of mysterious deaths connected to the world of horse racing and possibly to Ned’s employee Olive’s (played by Kristin Chenoweth) past.
The case involves jockeys, a tragic past, and rumors of a ghostly rider seeking revenge. As the investigation unfolds, the detectives must determine whether the deaths are the work of a supernatural presence or someone exploiting an eerie legend.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: A ghostly horseman, a supernatural detective, and the delightfully macabre atmosphere of Pushing Daisies make this episode an excellent seasonal choice. Its combination of fantasy, mystery, romance, and dark comedy feels especially appropriate for Halloween.
Where to Watch: Available for digital purchase through Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home.
6. Castle — "Vampire Weekend" (Season 2, Episode 6)
Castle follows successful mystery novelist Richard Castle (played by Nathan Fillion), who begins working with NYPD homicide detective Kate Beckett (played by Stana Katic). Castle's imaginative theories and enthusiasm for unusual crimes frequently clash with Beckett's more practical investigative methods. Their entertaining partnership, witty banter, and increasingly complicated relationship are central to the series.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Vampire Weekend," Castle and Beckett investigate a particularly disturbing murder when a young man is discovered in a cemetery with vampire fangs and a wooden stake driven through his heart.
The investigation leads them into New York City's underground vampire subculture, where participants embrace supernatural identities and lifestyles. As the detectives explore the victim's connections, they discover that a graphic novel he was creating may hold important clues to his death.
Meanwhile, Castle is enthusiastically preparing for Halloween, complete with costumes and his annual party.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: Vampires, graveyards, costumes, and murder make this one of the most entertaining Halloween episodes of Castle. The holiday also gives Castle plenty of opportunities to indulge his imagination, much to Beckett's amusement.
Where to Watch: Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.
5. Agatha Raisin — "Witch of Wyckhadden" (Season 1, Episode 8 on Acorn TV)
Agatha Raisin stars Ashley Jensen as a former London public relations executive who retires to the picturesque Cotswolds village of Carsely. Unfortunately, her dreams of a peaceful country life are repeatedly interrupted by murder. With her curiosity, determination, and occasionally outrageous methods, Agatha becomes an enthusiastic amateur detective, often assisted by her friends.
Based on the mystery novels by M. C. Beaton, the series combines eccentric village characters, romantic complications, and plenty of humor.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Witch of Wyckhadden," Agatha retreats to the Wyckhadden Hotel after an embarrassing hairdressing disaster leaves her desperate to escape Carsely.
Her getaway takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Francie Juddle, a local woman known for her supposed supernatural abilities. Agatha hopes Francie might be able to help with her hair troubles, but things become considerably more complicated when the woman is found murdered.
With suspicion falling on the hotel's unusual collection of guests, including Agatha herself, she must investigate the death and uncover the secrets surrounding the supposed witch.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: A spooky hotel, a local witch, mysterious guests, and Agatha Raisin's wonderfully chaotic approach to solving crimes make this a delightful Halloween mystery. It's especially appealing if you prefer your seasonal scares accompanied by humor and a picturesque English setting.
Where to Watch: Acorn TV. Note that Acorn TV identifies this as Series 1, Episode 8; episode numbering can differ between guides.
4. Murdoch Mysteries — "Sir. Sir? Sir!!!" (Season 12, Episode 6)
Set in Toronto around the turn of the twentieth century, Murdoch Mysteries follows Detective William Murdoch (played by Yannick Bisson), whose innovative scientific methods help him solve crimes long before many modern forensic techniques become commonplace.
Assisted by Constable George Crabtree (played by Jonny Harris), Inspector Thomas Brackenreid (played by Thomas Craig), and Dr. Julia Ogden (played by Hélène Joy), Murdoch investigates everything from conventional murders to cases involving strange inventions and seemingly impossible events.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: "Sir. Sir? Sir!!!" takes the series in a wonderfully bizarre direction.
Following a meteor shower over Toronto, strange objects appear, mysterious craters are discovered, and unusual creatures begin emerging. Even more disturbing, some residents start behaving in ways that seem completely unlike themselves.
As Murdoch investigates the scientific possibilities, Crabtree becomes increasingly convinced that Toronto is experiencing an alien invasion. With the city's inhabitants acting strangely and the situation growing more alarming, Crabtree fears he may be one of the few people capable of stopping an extraterrestrial threat.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: This unusual, non-canonical Halloween special is a playful departure from the show's traditional historical detective stories. With science-fiction horror, mysterious creatures, and a decidedly spooky atmosphere, it's a fun choice for fans who enjoy seeing their favorite mystery characters face something completely unexpected.
Where to Watch: Acorn TV and Hulu list Murdoch Mysteries. Check Season 12 availability before viewing.
Want more Murdoch for Halloween? Check out our list of the Top 10 “Murdoch Mysteries” for Halloween.
3. Elsbeth — "Devil's Night" (Season 2, Episode 3)
Elsbeth stars Carrie Preston as Elsbeth Tascioni, a brilliant but delightfully unconventional attorney who uses her remarkable observational skills to assist the New York Police Department.
Originally introduced in The Good Wife and later appearing in The Good Fight, Elsbeth brings her eccentric personality, cheerful curiosity, and extraordinary ability to notice overlooked details to a series of murder investigations. Working alongside Captain C. W. Wagner (played by Wendell Pierce) and Officer Kaya Blanke (played by Carra Patterson), she frequently uncovers the truth by asking questions that others wouldn't think to ask.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Devil's Night," former child star Mackenzie "Mac" Altman (played by Brittany O'Grady) wakes up on Halloween morning with a serious problem: she has almost no memory of what happened during the previous night's festivities.
Even worse, she fears she may have committed murder.
Elsbeth and the police must retrace Mac's movements through a wild Halloween night to determine what actually happened. With missing memories, suspicious circumstances, and plenty of uncertainty about whom to believe, the investigation becomes an intriguing puzzle.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: This episode embraces Halloween in New York City, complete with the holiday's costumes and chaotic nightlife. Elsbeth's quirky investigative style adds plenty of charm to a mystery built around a very frightening question: What if you woke up believing you might have killed someone?
Where to Watch: Paramount+, including Paramount+ through supported streaming channels.
2. Monk — "Mr. Monk Goes Home Again" (Season 4, Episode 2)
Monk follows Adrian Monk (played by Tony Shalhoub), a former San Francisco police detective whose extraordinary powers of observation make him a brilliant investigator.
After the tragic death of his wife, Monk struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder, numerous phobias, and the difficulties of everyday life. Despite these challenges, he continues solving complicated crimes as a consultant to the police, assisted during this period by Natalie Teeger (played by Traylor Howard).
The series blends clever detective mysteries, comedy, and surprisingly touching personal stories.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Mr. Monk Goes Home Again," Monk investigates the shooting of an armored car driver outside a grocery store.
Meanwhile, Halloween brings an unusual family reunion when Monk visits his agoraphobic brother Ambrose (played by John Turturro), who believes their long-absent father is finally coming home.
As children go trick-or-treating, a mysterious person dressed as Frankenstein's monster begins stealing Halloween candy. What initially seems like a strange but relatively harmless crime soon becomes connected to Monk's murder investigation.
With suspicious candy, a costumed thief, and the emotional complications of Monk's family history, the detective has plenty to unravel before Halloween is over.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: This episode combines an ingenious murder mystery with traditional Halloween activities, including costumes, trick-or-treating, and candy. It's also a particularly memorable Monk story because of the relationship between Adrian and Ambrose, adding an emotional dimension to the holiday mystery.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video. Also available for digital purchase through major video retailers.
1. Agatha Christie's Poirot — "Hallowe'en Party" (Season 12, Episode 2)
Agatha Christie's Poirot stars David Suchet as Hercule Poirot, the meticulous Belgian detective created by Agatha Christie. Famous for his carefully maintained appearance, extraordinary intelligence, and reliance on his "little grey cells," Poirot solves complex crimes by examining human behavior, hidden motives, and seemingly insignificant details.
The long-running British television series adapts Christie's beloved novels and short stories, bringing many of the detective's most famous investigations to the screen.
The Halloween-worthy mystery: In "Hallowe'en Party," Poirot is drawn into a disturbing investigation after a young girl named Joyce Reynolds makes a startling claim during a village Halloween celebration.
Joyce announces that she once witnessed a murder, although she didn't realize what she had seen at the time. The adults dismiss her story as childish boasting.
But when Joyce is later discovered dead in the apple-bobbing bucket, her claim suddenly takes on a much more sinister meaning.
Mystery novelist Ariadne Oliver (played by Zoë Wanamaker), who is attending the party, calls upon her old friend Poirot to investigate. He must determine whether Joyce really witnessed a murder years earlier and whether someone killed her to prevent an old secret from being revealed.
As Poirot investigates, the charming village setting gives way to an increasingly unsettling mystery involving secrets, deception, and the consequences of past crimes.
Why it's perfect for Halloween: This adaptation of Agatha Christie's 1969 novel is an especially atmospheric Halloween mystery. The traditional party games, autumnal English setting, and sinister circumstances surrounding Joyce's death create a genuinely chilling story.
Unlike some of the lighter mysteries on our list, "Hallowe'en Party" has a darker tone, making it particularly effective for viewers who enjoy a little more suspense with their classic detective fiction.
And really, what better way to finish a Halloween mystery marathon than with Hercule Poirot investigating a murder at an actual Halloween party?
Where to Watch: BritBox and Acorn TV list the complete series, including Season 12. Check the specific episode on your chosen service.
Make It a Halloween Mystery Marathon!
One of the best things about Halloween mystery television is that there's something for every kind of mystery fan.
If you enjoy funny, lighthearted mysteries, try Psych, Monk, Agatha Raisin, or Elsbeth. For traditional British detective stories with spooky twists, Father Brown, Midsomer Murders, Murder, She Wrote, and Poirot offer wonderfully atmospheric investigations.
And if you want something a little more unusual, Pushing Daisies, Poker Face, and Murdoch Mysteries bring supernatural themes, horror-inspired settings, and unexpected twists to the detective genre.
Whether you're watching one episode while handing out Halloween candy or planning an entire mystery-themed watch party, these 13 episodes offer plenty of suspense, eccentric suspects, and entertaining investigations.
So grab your favorite Halloween treats, settle into your coziest chair, and prepare for a little murder and mystery.
Which mystery TV episode is your favorite to watch at Halloween? Did we leave out one you love? Let us know!
Happy Halloween from CozyCrimes!