Congratulations to Queen Neptune!
The Towne family is excited to congratulate Buffy Barefoot, Virginia Beach president, who is the reigning Queen Neptune. For the first time in its 51-year history, the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival has crowned a Queen.
The Neptune Royal Monarch is chosen by the Neptune Festival committee from nominations from the public and serves as the leader of the annual season of events each fall. The selection process weighs criteria such as demonstrated involvement and contribution to the quality of life in Virginia Beach.
“We are thrilled to usher in a new era of the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival with Buffy Barefoot as Queen Neptune,” said Christopher “Kit” Chope, president and CEO of the Neptune Festival. “As we embark on our next 50 years, it’s only fitting that we celebrate this milestone with the selection of such a dynamic and inspiring leader. Buffy’s passion for this community and her dedication to making Virginia Beach a better place to live, work, and play, make her a perfect choice to reign as our 51st Monarch.”
“My connection with the Neptune Festival spans three decades, starting when I was just 21 years old,” said Buffy. “I have a deep appreciation for the joy and unity it brings to Virginia Beach. Participating in the Festival with my family has given me lifelong friends and cherished memories that I hold dear. Becoming the Festival’s first Queen is an honor beyond compare.”
Photo credit: Ramone Photography
As Queen Neptune LI, Buffy reigns over a Royal Court consisting of her Tritons, who are selected based on their leadership and contributions to the community, and the Festival’s Princes and Princesses from area high schools. The Royal Court serves as ambassadors for the Neptune Festival throughout the year, promoting this mission at events and engagements.