In a vibrant ceremony celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Neptune Festival, King Neptune Akhil Jan and his wife Nita were honored alongside local dignitaries and community members in Virginia Beach. The event, marked by a sense of nostalgia and community pride, featured a gathering of Tritons and their partners, including notable figures such as Jim Bibbs and Will Driscoll.

King Neptune, reflecting on his 38 years in Virginia Beach, shared his personal journey with the festival, recalling his childhood excitement and his experiences as a hotel clerk witnessing the joy of visitors. He emphasized the festival's significant impact on local businesses, highlighting its role in boosting the economy through increased tourism.

The celebration was not only a tribute to the festival's rich history but also a commitment to its future, with King Neptune expressing optimism for the next 50 years. The event concluded with a call for unity among council members and attendees, reinforcing the festival's importance to the community.