Halloween on Evergreen Lane? It’s a Bigger Deal Than You Think!
Evergreen Lane, the epitome of holiday cheer, is back in the spotlight with Haul Out The Halloween, a Hallmark Channel comedy that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious. But here’s where it gets controversial: what happens when a neighborhood’s festive spirit turns into a rulebook of dos and don’ts? And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about decorations; it’s about community, tradition, and the unexpected ways we honor those we’ve lost.
In this latest installment of the Haul Out series, newlyweds Emily (Lacey Chabert) and Jared (Wes Brown) find themselves at the center of a holiday revolution. Evergreen Lane, known for its over-the-top Christmas displays, is suddenly thrown into chaos when new neighbors Luna and Marvin Balmer transform their lawn into a spooky spectacle of skeletons and gravestones. Jared, the strait-laced HOA president, is horrified—Halloween isn’t part of the neighborhood’s bylaws. But why? And this is where the story takes a surprisingly emotional turn.
Turns out, the anti-Halloween rule was implemented years ago to protect Emily’s feelings after her grandmother, a Halloween enthusiast, passed away. When Emily learns this, she decides to flip the script, turning Halloween into a celebration of her grandmother’s memory. She declares Halloween decor mandatory, launches a series of festive contests, and challenges the neighborhood to embrace a holiday they’ve long ignored. But as the decorations go up, so do the tensions. Jared discovers his mom is secretly dating their neighbor Ned (Stephen Tobolowsky), and Emily begins to question whether Evergreen Lane’s competitive spirit has made the community more exclusive than inclusive.
But here’s the real question: Can a neighborhood known for its Christmas cheer truly embrace the spookier side of the holidays? The film doesn’t shy away from exploring this, blending humor with heartfelt moments. The script is fast-paced and packed with witty banter, pop culture nods, and quirky characters. Tobolowsky’s Shakespeare-obsessed Ned steals scenes, while Marvin and Luna’s morbid-yet-lovable personalities add a fresh dynamic. Even the costumes are a hoot—keep an eye out for Jared’s “Chaddy Krueger” getup, a hilarious mashup of Freddy Krueger and Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger.
What sets Haul Out The Halloween apart is its focus on comedy, though it doesn’t neglect the romance and personal growth of its characters. Emily and Jared navigate married life, while the ensemble cast delivers a chemistry that makes Evergreen Lane feel like a place you’d want to visit—or maybe even live. The film also subtly critiques the idea of perfection in community living, asking whether a neighborhood’s quest to be “the best” can sometimes leave people out in the cold.
Is this just another holiday movie, or does it have something deeper to say? We’re leaning toward the latter. By the time Emily and Jared dance under a portrait of Gram-Gram, you’ll be reminded that holidays are about more than decorations—they’re about connection, memory, and the joy of coming together. So, should you stream it? Absolutely. But don’t be surprised if it leaves you thinking about your own neighborhood traditions—and whether they’re as inclusive as they could be.
Thought-provoking question for you: Do holiday traditions bring us together, or can they sometimes create barriers? Share your thoughts in the comments!
