JOINT BASE LANGEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
More than 500,000 community members attended the 40th annual Virginia Beach Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend Sept. 27-29. The festival was designed to showcase the unique heritage and location of Virginia Beach as a "city by the sea," and to enhance family values and togetherness of the community. The festival featured the Neptune International Sandsculpting Championship, Neptune Art and Craft Show and the Neptune Festival Grand Parade, a 16-block celebration featuring local "Hometown Hero" Service members. Through hosting more than 35 events throughout the week, it has been named the city's largest and oldest event of its kind.
In addition to the parade, Service members from each branch of military were also invited to a Sunday brunch, "Hometown Heroes: Final Toast," to recognize them as local community members.
"Hosting Service members from each branch of military is something we strive to do each year," said Becky Bump, media relations coordinator for the Neptune Festival. "The military is a significant component of our community so we try to recognize them every chance we get."
According to Bump, the festival fosters a spirit of community pride and cohesiveness in the Virginia Beach citizenry.
By hosting local Service members it helps to bring the community together, said Airman 1st Class Robert Keen, 633rd Comptroller Squadron financial analyst.
"It's a huge honor to be a part of this event, since that I am originally from Virginia Beach," said Keen. "I'm representing my city as well as being the face of the Air Force, and it lets people know that we are here to help our community and thank them for their support."
With help from more than 1,200 volunteers and nearly 30 event-activity chairmen, the Neptune Festival has evolved into one of the top 10 festivals in the Southeast according to the Southeast Tourism Association, and has become a major visitor draw, bringing in thousands of local visitors to the Boardwalk.
"Not only is this event great for our community, but it is also a great way to support the strong bonds we have with our military," said Bump. "We are already looking forward to next year's festival."