Hundreds attended an unsanctioned St. Patrick’s Day parade in Tybee Island, Georgia, on Saturday despite it being canceled over fears of the Chinese coronavirus.

Revelers did not let concerns about the virus stop them from participating in the Tybee Island Irish Heritage Parade event that took place along Butler Avenue, according to the Savannah Morning News.

“Although the event’s cancellation was announced on a digital billboard alongside U.S. 80 eastbound toward Tybee Island, enthusiastic green-bedecked spectators of all ages lined the procession’s originally planned path,” the article read.

Tens of thousands of people were expected to descend upon the island over the weekend to celebrate the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day, according to WJCL.

However, city officials postponed the gathering Saturday morning.

“In the best interest of the city and the health of the public, the City of Tybee Island and The Irish Heritage Committee have jointly decided to postpone the Tybee Irish Heritage Parade previously scheduled for today. A future date for the event to be announced,” the post read.

In addition to the city’s announcement, Gov. Brian Kemp issued a Public Health State of Emergency due to the coronavirus.

In a statement Friday, Kemp urged faith-based organizations and similar entities to consider canceling their events to stop the potential spread of the disease.

“Elderly citizens and those with chronic, underlying health conditions face a serious threat to their health, and we must do everything in our power to reduce risk associated with this virus,” the governor commented.

“Continue to support one another, be mindful of potential exposure, use best practices to prevent infection, and pray for your fellow Americans in the weeks ahead,” he concluded.

Although Saturday’s parade was canceled by 11 a.m., islanders were seen lining up on the city’s main street just a few hours later at 2:30 p.m., according to WSOCTV 9.

“We’re always going to be Tybee strong no matter what, and were [sic] going to support local businesses,” said parade attendee Jennifer Rentires.

“We’re just going to enjoy the day, it’s one big block party here at Tybee,” she explained.