Ellis County has always been rich with Texas pride, entrepreneurial grit, and the kind of authentic flavor you can’t find anywhere else. This fall, as Waxahachie prepares to host the Crossroads of Texas GO TEXAN Festival on Saturday, October 25, 2025, we pause to salute ten remarkable GO TEXAN-certified businesses that call our community home. Each one showcases the spirit of craftsmanship, innovation, and tradition that makes our region shine.
MEAT CHURCH
Founded by the preacher of meat, Matt Pittman, Meat Church has become a destination business for backyard pitmasters across Texas and beyond. From their shop on the historic Ellis County Courthouse Square, Pittman and his team serve up a complete line of legendary rubs, brines, and gear that have helped fuel the barbecue boom. With over one million YouTube subscribers, Meat Church inspires cooks of every skill level to fire up the pit and make memories around the table. Whether you’re browsing their shelves in person or watching a how-to video online, you’ll find plenty of Texas-sized flavor and hospitality.
CASSARO WINERY
Nestled right here in Ovilla, Cassaro Winery crafts award-winning wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Whether you’re partial to a crisp white or a bold red, each vintage is a testament to the art of Texas winemaking.
FROSTBITE CANDY LAB
This inventive confectioner takes candy-making to new heights, blending nostalgic favorites with modern twists. Their small-batch creations—from creamy brittles to playful treats—bring a smile to every sweet tooth.
LOS PRIMANOS BBQ RUBS
Because barbecue means family, Los Primanos is a tribute to over 32 years of Jim Ensinia learning to grill and BBQ from his Dad, Jesse, and Uncle, Frank. The Los Primanos signature rubs and spice blends capture smoky, savory flavors that transform backyard cooking into something unforgettable.
BIG DADDY BEARD
Big Daddy Beard crafts premium grooming products designed to help every beardsman look and feel his best. From nourishing beard oils and rich balms to handmade soaps and skincare essentials, their lineup combines natural ingredients with a touch of Texas pride. Each small-batch creation supports healthy, great-looking beards while celebrating the tradition and rugged spirit of the Lone Star State.
ROLEN’S HONEY
Local bees and dedicated stewardship define Rolen’s Honey. From wildflower to clover varieties, their honey is a delicious reminder of the importance of pollinators to our land and our tables.
MEAT THERAPY
Meat Therapy believes that great barbecue starts with passion—and the right blend of spices. Their handcrafted rubs are designed to make every cookout memorable, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or an enthusiastic beginner.
BURLESON’S
A beloved family name in Texas honey, Burleson’s has been producing pure, golden sweetness for over a century. Their commitment to quality and sustainability makes every jar a taste of tradition.
WHIMSY AND WIT
Whimsy and Wit creates handcrafted, high-quality hair and skincare products, as well as artisanal soaps, that bring a touch of luxury to everyday routines. From nourishing balms and fragrant bath soaks to beautifully packaged soaps, their collections combine natural ingredients with thoughtful design. Each item is made in small batches, celebrating self-care and the joy of treating yourself to something special.
KA RANCH
KA Ranch offers a distinctive line of Texas-made provisions that bring authentic flavor to any kitchen. Their small-batch jarred salsas, pepper jellies, pickled vegetables, and handcrafted dry rubs are created with the same care and dedication that define their ranching heritage. From zesty condiments to savory seasonings, KA Ranch makes it easy to stock your pantry with tastes that celebrate the spirit of the Lone Star State.
Together, these ten businesses embody the GO TEXAN spirit—innovative, resilient, and proudly local. Whether you’re savoring a jar of honey, uncorking a bottle of wine, or spicing up your next barbecue, you’re supporting the neighbors and entrepreneurs who make Ellis County extraordinary.
This October, make plans to join us in historic downtown Waxahachie for the Crossroads of Texas GO TEXAN Country Festival, happening on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Now proudly presented by the Texas Department of Agriculture’s GO TEXAN program, this event has grown into the largest one-day festival in the Lone Star State—and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. Discover over 200 booths filled with Texas-made art, crafts, culinary favorites, and GO TEXAN-certified products, while live music fills the streets from ten different stages. Bring the whole family, shop local, and see for yourself why Waxahachie is known as the Crossroads of Texas—where the best of Texas comes together for one unforgettable day. For more information, visit GOTEXANFESTIVAL.COM.
— LAURIE MOSLEY
