The St. Patrick’s Day parade, the long-standing Coeur d’Alene tradition, joined a growing list of local and nationwide events to be cancelled in the wake of the coronavirus.

Ilene Moss, owner of Sherman Avenue’s All Things Irish and an organizer of the annual event, said concern for the public’s health and safety drove the decision to cancel the event, which would have been Coeur d’Alene’s 15th.

“The biggest factor,” Moss said, “was the Panhandle Health [District] updating their guidelines for activities. Because of the situation, people were starting to drop out.”

The coronavirus has now infected at least 125,000 worldwide and 1,840 Americans. The virus — which presents with flu-like symptoms that include a fever, runny nose and respiratory distress — has prompted the shutdown of events that typically draw large crowds. In the last two days, the NBA suspended all basketball operations, MLB has postponed the start of baseball season, the NHL has postponed its season, and the NCAA has cancelled all winter championships, including men’s and women’s March Madness.

“Cancelling this year was the right thing to do,” Moss said. “It seemed like the prudent thing to do, and it’s unfortunate, but it’s for the best.”

Moss added that, while the parade would not go on, people could still enjoy themselves on Saturday. All Things Irish will still have live music from noon to 2 p.m., as well as a photo booth. Their customary facepainting booth, however, was cancelled.

“My advice is to relax and enjoy yourself,” Moss said. “But, at the same time, be aware. We are very consciencious that we’re keeping things as sanitized as possible.”

Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney Barry McHugh was scheduled to be the Grand Marshall of the event. He said he understood the decision to cancel.

“I’m disappointed, of course,” McHugh confessed, “but I also think it was prudent, given the evolution of what has been happening locally, nationwide and worldwide. I think caution is appropriate right now, so cancelling was definitely the right decision.”

That said, McHugh said he couldn’t help but feel let-down.

“I had my outfit all set and was ready to roll,” he admitted with a smile. “If they’ll have me, I’ll be happy to do it again.”

Moss said McHugh — and next year’s parade-goers — had nothing to worry about.

“Barry would’ve made a great Grand Marshall this year,” she said, “and he’ll be a great Grand Marshall next year. We’ll definitely have him back. We can’t wait to see him — and you — next year.”