Ashley Hilary of Southold, the 2017 Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Queen. Photo: Katharine Schroeder
Sixteen-year-old Ashley Hilary of Southold was crowned 2017 Strawberry Queen this afternoon at the 63rd annual Strawberry Festival in Mattituck.
Ashley was one of five contestants vying for the crown this year: Brianna Fox, 16, of Mattituck, who was the runner-up, Larysa Andreadis, 17 of Mattituck, Emiliann Palermo, 15, of Southold and Madison Osler, 17 of Mattituck.
Ashley, who was in the Strawberry Queen court last year, was clearly thrilled and talked about how much she enjoyed the entire process of competing for the tiara.
“I had so much fun last year that I couldn’t wait to come back,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the parades and ceremonies and especially to meeting all the little kids who get so excited to see the Strawberry Queen. I love kids, so that will be a lot of fun.”
The Strawberry Festival continues throughout the weekend.
