By Grace Halloween, Marketing Coordinator
Every great tradition starts with a simple idea, and in 2009, two creative videographers from the City’s Public Communications department had one that would become a community favorite.
The pair handled video production and programming for the City’s government access channel, Channel 19. The channel’s primary purpose is broadcasting City Council and Planning & Zoning Commission meetings — essential viewing for residents interested in local government, but not exactly must-see TV for everyone else.
In the spirit of Halloween, the videographers decided to try something new. Their idea? To air a marathon of old, delightfully cheesy horror movies leading up to Halloween. The goal was simple: to draw in more viewers with something fun while still showcasing the valuable, informative programming offered year-round.
It worked!
Residents tuned in out of curiosity and stayed for the campy scares, black-and-white monsters, and the nostalgic charm of horror’s golden age. Before long, Halloween on 19 became a seasonal staple, returning each October to entertain, surprise, and remind viewers that city programming can be informative and fun.
Fast forward to today, and the tradition continues with Grace Halloween, who keeps the spooky spirit alive as the event’s on-screen host. Grace introduces each film with a touch of humor and Halloween flair, setting the stage for an afternoon and evening of classic thrills and vintage chills.
The annual scare-athon kicks off on Thursday and runs through Halloween night with a lineup of timeless horror favorites. Between films, regular city programming will give viewers a chance to learn about local projects, community services, and events happening around College Station.
The 2025 Halloween on 19 lineup is a love letter to the pioneers of horror cinema — Bela Lugosi, Lon Chaney, and Vincent Price — who defined the genre and inspired generations of filmmakers.
From the eerie shadows of Nosferatu (1922) and the haunting beauty of Phantom of the Opera (1925) to the quirky terror of Little Shop of Horrors (1960) and the post-apocalyptic suspense of The Last Man on Earth (1964), the films offer something for every horror fan.
These horror masters prove that even without high-tech effects or modern jump scares, a terrific story and a touch of imagination can still send shivers down your spine.
So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and tune in to Channel 19 or 119HD (Optimum). Between classic scares and timeless storytelling, you might just discover how much helpful, entertaining, and community-focused content your city channel offers.
After all, Halloween on 19 is more than just a movie marathon; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and spooky fun that’s haunted the airwaves for 16 years and counting.
To raise your Halloween passions, we invite you to enjoy some of our infamous Halloween on 19 promos from the past. You might even recognize a few faces:
Happy Halloween!
About the Blogger
Grace Halloween (Hallowell) is in her fourth year as marketing coordinator for the city’s Public Communications department. A native of Erie, Pa., Grace has a bachelor’s degree in advertising communications.
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