As the southern summer begins to reluctantly fade, it reminds me of a John Denver song – sometimes it takes a lifetime, sometimes I think I’ll never see the sun again. The end of sun-bleached days and balmy nights is in sight, which is either a blessing or a curse – or both – depending on how you look at it.Still, the tantalizing allure of one more summer adventure beckons from the horizon. One last dance with cheerful blue skies in the tangle of wild grass. One more day spent skimming across the lake with wind-torn hair and the perfume of sunscreen. One more chance to create a bright memory to sustain us as a burning ember through the colder months.If you feel the insatiable pull to break away for one last moment of fun in the sun, these are the three best opportunities for a great summer sendoff in Choctaw Country:1. Bring Your Family to the Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival Located on the historic Choctaw Capitol Grounds in Tuskahoma, the Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival has it all: carnival rides, sporting events, a 5K run, arts & crafts vendors, live entertainment and incredible food. It’s also home to the Choctaw Nation Royalty Pageant and Chief’s annual State of the Nation address. Best of all, admission is free and so are the rides!2. Book a Lakeside Waterfront Getaway If you’re like me, you can never have enough time on the water when it’s hot outside. Fortunately, there are many places in Choctaw Country offering waterfront rentals, so a cool dip is never far away. Book a beautiful lakefront home in Carlton Landing for a picturesque family getaway, cool off at the Lake Carlton swim beach or outdoor pool at Robbers Cave State Park, or kayak down the Mountain Fork River when you book a luxurious cabin getaway at Beavers Bend State Park.3. Escape to Choctaw Casino & Resort–Durant Why is a casino on this list? One word: AQUA. It’s a three-acre paradise complete with an adults-only pool, a family-friendly pool with waterslides, private cabanas, outdoor food venues and three outdoor bars – not to mention poolside parties almost every weekend featuring a live DJ, giveaways and photo ops. It’s also exclusive to hotel guests at Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant, so be sure to book your stay.