Hallmark Channel expands its beloved “Haul Out the Holly” series with a ghoulishly delightful Halloween installment, ‘Haul Out the Halloween,’ starring fan-favorite Lacey Chabert. This new film transforms Evergreen Lane into ‘Everscream Lane’ for a spooky charity fundraiser, notably featuring a highly anticipated ‘Halloweentown’ reunion with Kimberly J. Brown and Daniel Kountz, who are also married in real life.
The enchanting neighborhood of Evergreen Lane, first introduced in the popular Christmas films ‘Haul Out the Holly’ and ‘Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up,’ is now ready to celebrate a new holiday: Halloween. Hallmark Channel has embraced the festive spirit, expanding the series with ‘Haul Out the Halloween,’ a movie poised to bring pumpkin spice, ghoulish goblins, and spooky fun to fans this fall.
This latest installment promises the same charm and community spirit that viewers have come to love, but with a decidedly eerie twist. The original cast members are returning, joined by new faces that are sure to delight fans of classic Halloween cinema, particularly those who grew up with Disney Channel’s “Halloweentown” series.
What is ‘Haul Out the Halloween’ About?
In ‘Haul Out the Halloween,’ Evergreen Lane, a neighborhood renowned for its spectacular holiday displays, has historically maintained a modest approach to Halloween. This changes dramatically with the arrival of new, fun-loving, and spooky neighbors, Luna (Kimberly J. Brown) and Marvin (Daniel Kountz).
Inspired by their enthusiasm, Emily (Lacey Chabert), Jared (Wes Brown), and the rest of the HOA (Homeowners Association) enthusiastically agree to join in the seasonal festivities. Their plan? To launch ‘Everscream Lane’—a Halloween fundraiser for a local charity. As the residents come together, planning creepy contests, spine-chilling décor, and a spooktacular carnival, new haunted hijinks naturally ensue, involving familiar faces like Pamela (Melissa Peterman), Ned (Stephen Tobolowsky), and Mary Louise (Ellen Travolta). Through this eerie process, Emily rediscovers the joys of the holiday she once cherished with her late grandmother, Laurie Harrop-Purser.
The ‘Haul Out’ Franchise: From Holly to Halloween
‘Haul Out the Halloween’ marks the third film in the expanding “Haul Out the Holly” series. It follows the original ‘Haul Out the Holly’ and its sequel, ‘Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up.’ This expansion into other holidays underscores the immense popularity of the Evergreen Lane neighborhood concept, demonstrating Hallmark Channel’s commitment to delivering festive, community-driven stories year-round.
What Other ‘Haul Out’ Movies Do the Stars Envision?
The cast members themselves have openly shared their imaginative ideas for future “Haul Out” installments, reflecting the fun and camaraderie experienced on set. As reported by Parade:
- Melissa Peterman (Pamela) suggested “Haul Out the Hippity Hop Easter!” imagining an “epic” Easter egg hunt on Evergreen Lane.
- One writer proposed “Haul Out the Baby,” to which Peterman enthusiastically responded with “Haul Out the High Chair!”, envisioning Jared (Wes Brown) and Emily (Lacey Chabert) having a baby.
- Stephen Tobolowsky (Ned) offered a unique Passover-themed idea: “Haul Out the Horseradish.”
- Wes Brown (Jared) thought Thanksgiving would be a “fun one because of the food element,” humorously picturing Ned going turkey hunting.
A ‘Halloweentown’ Reunion: Kimberly J. Brown and Daniel Kountz
One of the most exciting aspects of ‘Haul Out the Halloween’ for fans is the reunion of Kimberly J. Brown and Daniel Kountz. Brown is famously known for her role as Marnie Cromwell, the teen witch in Disney Channel’s ‘Halloweentown’ series. Kountz starred opposite her as the villain Kal in ‘Halloweentown II: Kalabar’s Revenge.’
Their on-screen reunion is particularly heartwarming, as the two reconnected in 2016 for a ‘Halloweentown’ project for Brown’s YouTube channel, leading to a real-life romance. They became engaged in 2022 and married in 2024, adding an extra layer of magic and authenticity to their roles as the “spooky new neighbors” Luna and Marvin in ‘Haul Out the Halloween.’
Meet the Stars of Evergreen Lane
The ensemble cast bringing Evergreen Lane to life features a blend of beloved Hallmark regulars and seasoned character actors.
Lacey Chabert (Emily)
Often hailed as the “reigning queen of Hallmark,” Lacey Chabert returns as Emily. With an impressive filmography including the ‘Crossword Mystery’ and ‘The Wedding Veil’ movies, Chabert has solidified her place as a fan favorite. Beyond acting, she hosts the feel-good reality series, ‘Celebrations with Lacey Chabert,’ which highlights individuals making a difference in their communities, as reported by Simple Most.
Wes Brown (Jared)
Wes Brown reprises his role as Jared. Known for nearly 20 films, including ‘Christmas at Graceland’ and ‘My Southern Family Christmas,’ Brown is a familiar face to Hallmark viewers. He also hosts ‘Ready, Set, Glow!’, a holiday-themed light display series. Brown revealed a fun fact: he’s been building onto the same pirate costume for a decade, incorporating vintage pieces rather than store-bought items.
Melissa Peterman (Pamela)
Best known as Barbara Jean from ‘Reba,’ Melissa Peterman returns as Pamela. She has a strong working relationship with Reba McEntire, co-starring in ‘The Hammer’ and NBC’s ‘Happy’s Place.’ Peterman fondly recalls her childhood cowgirl costume as her favorite, which she wore constantly, even over sweaters in Minnesota.
Stephen Tobolowsky (Ned)
Veteran character actor Stephen Tobolowsky, known for memorable roles in films like ‘Groundhog Day’ and TV shows such as ‘Glee,’ reprises his role as Ned. A humorous childhood memory for Tobolowsky involves his disappointment that his Godzilla costume didn’t grant him fire-breathing abilities.
Laura Wardle (Belinda)
Laura Wardle returns as Belinda. Her previous credits include the other ‘Haul Out the Holly’ movies, ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,’ and ‘Christmas Wreaths and Ribbons.’
Ellen Travolta (Mary Louise)
Ellen Travolta, sister of John Travolta, stars as Mary Louise. She has a rich history in television, playing Louisa Arcola Delvecchio in both ‘Happy Days’ and ‘Joanie Loves Chachi,’ and appearing with her brother in ‘Grease.’
Filming Location: Is Evergreen Lane Real?
While Evergreen Lane may be a fictional neighborhood, the magic behind the ‘Haul Out the Holly’ and ‘Haul Out the Halloween’ movies is very real. Both films were shot in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, bringing a picturesque backdrop to the festive escapades of the community.
Premiere Dates and How to Watch
Don’t miss the premiere of ‘Haul Out the Halloween’ on Saturday, October 11, at 8 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel. For those who prefer streaming, the movie will be available the next day on Hallmark+. You can also catch repeat airings:
- Sunday, October 12, at 6 p.m. ET
- Tuesday, October 14, at 8 p.m. ET
- Thursday, October 16, at 6 p.m. ET
A Look at ‘Haul Out the Halloween’
