A Family Weekend at the Van Zandt County Fair

Our Stay at Dragonhead Retreat + A Classic Texas Fair Experience

There’s something about spring in East Texas that just feels right—and this year, we decided to lean all the way into it.

I’m Craig, and along with my wife Sally and our three kids—Ben (13), Bella (10), and Ethan (7)—we packed up for a long weekend getaway at Dragonhead Retreat. Our goal? Slow down, reconnect as a family, and spend a full day soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Van Zandt County Fair in Canton (March 28 – April 4, 2026).

Arrival at Dragonhead Retreat

From the moment we pulled into Dragonhead Retreat, it felt like we had stepped into a different world. Tall pines, quiet air, and just enough distance from everything to truly breathe.

The kids bolted out of the car, already exploring. Bella found the porch swing within seconds, Ethan was collecting sticks like it was his life mission, and Ben—well, he claimed the best bunk before we even finished unloading.

Sally looked at me and smiled.
“This is exactly what we needed!”

That first night, we sat around the fire pit, roasting marshmallows and talking about the next day—the fair. The kids could barely contain their excitement.

The Cabin

Fair Day in Canton

The next morning, we made the short drive into Canton, and you could feel the buzz before we even parked. Music in the distance, the hum of generators, the laughter of families—it’s the kind of energy that instantly takes you back to your own childhood.

Rides & Midway Magic

Ethan spotted the rides first.
“Dad! Ferris wheel!!”

And just like that, we were off.

From spinning teacups to the classic swings and a towering Ferris wheel, the kids went all in. Ben tried to play it cool, but I caught him grinning ear-to-ear on one of the faster rides. Bella rode the carousel twice, waving like a queen each time she passed us. Ethan? He would’ve stayed on the kiddie coaster all day if we let him.

Sally and I even snuck in a ride together—something we hadn’t done in years. It felt like dating again.

Livestock & Local Pride

One of my favorite parts of any Texas fair is the livestock barns—and this one didn’t disappoint.

We walked through rows of cattle, goats, and pigs, each one groomed and cared for by local kids who were clearly proud of their work. Ben asked more questions than I’ve heard him ask in months, and Bella made fast friends with a goat that seemed just as curious about her.

There’s something grounding about it—seeing where things come from, watching kids take responsibility, and feeling connected to a slower, more intentional way of life.

The Food… Oh, the Food

Let’s be honest—no fair experience is complete without the food.

We didn’t hold back.

Corn dogs the size of your forearm
Funnel cakes piled high with powdered sugar
Fresh-squeezed lemonade in giant cups
Smoked brisket sandwiches dripping with flavor
And yes… deep-fried everything (including something we’re still not 100% sure what it was)

Ethan ended up covered in powdered sugar. Bella insisted on sharing bites of everything. Ben discovered a new love for brisket. And Sally and I? We just leaned into it—because calories don’t count at the fair.

Back at the Cabin

After a full day at the fair, we headed back to Dragonhead Retreat just as the sun was setting.

The contrast was perfect.

From the bright lights and noise of the midway…
to the quiet crackle of a fire and the sound of wind through the trees.

We sat outside, tired in the best way, replaying the day.

No screens. No rush. Just us.

Everyone’s Favorite Part

Before bed, I asked everyone one question:

“What was your favorite part of today?”

Sally: “Honestly? Riding that ride with you… and just being together like this again.”
Ben: “The rides. Definitely the rides. And the brisket.”
Bella: “The animals! And the carousel. And the funnel cake. Okay… everything.”
Ethan: “The roller coaster! And the lemonade! And… can we go again tomorrow?”
Me (Craig): “All of it. But mostly… watching you guys enjoy it.”

Plan Your Own Spring Family Adventure

If you’re looking for the perfect mix of family fun, small-town charm, and peaceful relaxation, a weekend at Dragonhead Retreat paired with a day at the Van Zandt County Fair is hard to beat.

Make the memories. Eat the food. Ride the rides. Slow down.

Book your spring getaway today at www.DragonheadRetreat.com

Your East Texas spring family adventure is waiting.

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