The Pasco County tradition of couples getting married on Valentine’s Day almost didn’t happen this year.

Clerk Paula O'Neil had planned to cancel the ceremony to remain consistent with her decision to stop providing wedding services - partly so the county wouldn't have to marry same-sex couples.

But a county judge stepped in to save the day.

After hearing the tradition would end, Circuit Judge Linda Babb decided to volunteer on Valentine's Day and marry couples.

She says couples who wish to get married on that day should get their marriage licenses no later than Feb. 11.

Babb also said she welcomes same-sex couples to the wedding this year.

“This is a civil ceremony and it gives people the same civil rights as anyone else," Babb said. "To keep people down in a civil manner, I think, is wrong, so I’m sort of glad to take part of it because of that."

The mass wedding ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. in front of the Historic County Courthouse in Dade City.