April getaways in East Texas

April in East Texas: Festivals, Art & Small-Town Charm

If you’re looking for the perfect time to experience East Texas, April is it. The weather is just right, the landscape is alive with spring color, and the calendar is packed with some of the most unique and charming events you’ll find anywhere in Texas.

From historic celebrations to live music, art festivals, and small-town traditions, April offers something for everyone—and Dragonhead Retreat is perfectly located to experience it all.

Dalton Days – Longview

April 11, 2026

Step into the past during Dalton Days, a celebration of East Texas history, heritage, and community pride.

This event brings Longview’s roots to life with:

  • Historical reenactments
  • Live music performances
  • Local vendors and artisans
  • Classic fair-style food

It’s a family-friendly event that blends education with entertainment, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for the culture and legacy of East Texas.

Dalton Days in Longview Texas

32nd Annual Dalton Days in Longview, Texas

Although inspired initially by the story of the bank robbery and the heroism of Longview’s citizens and law enforcement, Dalton Days is a celebration of our western heritage and has become a fun, family friendly tradition!

Families will enjoy many children’s games, food vendors, crafts, a petting zoo, and Western style entertainment. As was once tradition, Dalton Days will again be held downtown in front of the Gregg County Historical Museum and be free to the public. The Dalton Days festival begins with a bang at 12:00 p.m. the first of four reenactments (12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00) of the infamous bank robbery with an emphasis upon the bravery and heroism of the citizens and law enforcement in Longview in 1894.

Western entertainment will include live music, followed by America 250 events. There will also be artisans and craftsmen such as a blacksmith, soap maker, wood craftsman, chuck wagon demonstrations, root beer saloon and many others. The museum will once again host our children’s activity area. This area will feature a petting zoo, children’s games and many other activities designed to create a family friendly interactive experience. Fredonia Street will be filled with wonderful food vendors and souvenirs that adults and children will want to take home to commemorate the event.

Dogwood buds just beginning to open!
Dogwood buds just beginning to open!
Redbud tree budding in Davey Dogwood Park
Redbud tree budding in Davey Dogwood Park
Dogwood blooms opening in Davey Dogwood Park
Dogwood buds just beginning to open!
Dogwood buds just beginning to open!
Redbud tree budding in Davey Dogwood Park
Redbud tree budding in Davey Dogwood Park
Dogwood blooms opening in Davey Dogwood Park
Azaleas blooming in the Northside Historic District
Azaleas blooming in the Northside Historic District
Dogwoods blooming in front of historic home on N Link St
Bluebonnets blooming in town
Bluebonnets blooming in town

The History of Dalton Days

ON MAY, 23 1894, FAMED OUTLAW BILL DALTON AND THREE GANG MEMBERS, JIM WALLACE AND BROTHERS JIM AND JUDD NITE, RODE INTO LONGVIEW AND ROBBED THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK.

The letter arrived at the bank with the afternoon mail and was quite clear in its instructions:

“We take this method of informing you that on or about the 23rd day of May, A.D., 1894, we will rob the First National Bank of Longview. So take notice accordingly and withdraw your deposit as this is a straight tip. For further information, see Charles Specklemeyer or the undersigned. Yours for business, B&F.”

B&F somewhat comically stood for “Bill and Friends” but Bill Dalton was no friend of Longview and this was no laughing matter. Bank officials didn’t know what to think of this furiously scribbled directive so they filed it away and continued on with the tasks at hand.

What ensued was one the Old West’s biggest shootouts with some 200 shots fired by outlaws and townspeople who responded to the holdup.

In the downtown gunfight at Fredonia and Bank streets, residents George Buckingham and Charles Learned died in the battle. Wounded in the fight were: citizens Walter McQueen, T.J. Summers and City Marshal Matt Muckleroy. The marshal’s life was saved when an outlaw’s bullet struck a coin purse in his shirt pocket. Although seriously injured, Muckleroy eventually recovered.

When bandit Jim Wallace was killed by a citizen, Bill Dalton decided it was time to hightail it out of town.

Dalton and the Nite brothers escaped with some $2,000 in bank notes and coins. Two weeks later, Dalton – America’s best-known bandit in 1894 – was tracked down at a cabin in Oklahoma’s Arbuckle Mountains and killed by a posse. Judd Nite later was killed in a Central Texas shootout; his brother Jim Nite was captured and sent to prison for his role in the Longview robbery.

Must-Do Experiences During the Festival

Forgefest – Ben Wheeler

April 11, 2026

If you’ve never been to Forgefest, you’re in for something special.

This beloved festival in the artistic community of Ben Wheeler is known for its:

  • Live music from regional and local bands
  • Artisan booths featuring handcrafted goods
  • Blacksmith demonstrations and live forging
  • Food trucks and local eats

Forgefest has a unique, laid-back vibe that perfectly captures the creative spirit of East Texas. It’s one of those events where you come for a few hours—and end up staying all day.

Amy Speace Live – The Old Firehouse, Edom

April 12, 2026

For a more intimate experience, head to Edom for a special evening with Amy Speace at The Old Firehouse.

Known for her soulful voice and storytelling lyrics, Amy Speace delivers a performance that feels personal, emotional, and unforgettable.

  • Small venue
  • Acoustic excellence
  • Perfect date night or relaxing evening

Pair this with dinner in Edom’s charming downtown, and you’ve got a night you won’t forget.

Edom Art Festival – Edom

April 18, 2026

Edom comes alive in April with its vibrant Art Festival, where creativity takes center stage.

Expect:

  • Local and regional artists showcasing their work
  • Live music throughout the day
  • Food vendors with delicious eats
  • A lively, welcoming atmosphere

This is one of the best places to discover unique art, meet creators, and experience the heart of East Texas’ artistic community.

East Texas Gusher Days – Gladewater

April 18 – 19, 2026

Travel back to the oil boom days during Gusher Days in Gladewater—a high-energy festival packed with history and fun.

Highlights include:

  • Oil derrick demonstrations
  • Carnival rides and games
  • Live entertainment
  • Classic car shows
  • Festival food and vendors

It’s a celebration of the region’s rich oil heritage and a true small-town Texas experience.

Your April Base Camp: Dragonhead Retreat

Here’s the beauty of April in East Texas—you don’t have to choose just one event. You can:

  • Experience history in Longview
  • Soak in music and art in Ben Wheeler
  • Enjoy an intimate concert in Edom
  • Explore creativity at the Art Festival
  • Step back in time in Gladewater

And in between it all, return to the peace and quiet of Dragonhead Retreat.

Think of it as your East Texas base camp—a place where the days are filled with adventure, and the evenings are spent under the stars, around the fire, surrounded by nature.

Because the best part of April isn’t just the events…
it’s the feeling of slowing down, exploring more, and making memories along the way.

Plan Your April Getaway

April is one of the most popular times to visit East Texas—and for good reason. With so much happening across the region, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan a getaway that’s equal parts fun and relaxation.

To book your April stay – www.DragonheadRetreat.com

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