Bill Lewis of Cambridge said he was part of a group called Republicans for Bernie at a rally for Bernie Sanders in Worcester on Saturday.

(Michael D. Kane | MassLive)

WORCESTER - Bernie Sanders came to Worcester and so did his supporters. An over-capacity crowd that started at North High School's rear entrance had already reached Harrington Avenue by 3:30 on Saturday, with volunteers scrambling to send cars to the Ecotarium and along the street for the Vermont Senator's first visit to Worcester.

Communications and Political Director Joe Caiazzo said two overflow rooms had been set up at North High School and loudspeakers had been placed outside after more people pre-registered for the event than North's gymnasium could accommodate.

"We very quickly filled the available seats," Caiazzo said. "It's something we are seeing over and over. As quickly as we build it, they come."

The gymnasium crowd sporadically broke into chants of "Bernie" as the clock ticked toward 5 p.m., when Sanders was expected to take the stage.

At least one supporter said he planned on staying outside to make sure the crowd had fun.

Bill Lewis, of Cambridge, dressed in a Santa suit, was leading the crowd in song while waiting for Sanders to arrive.

"I am part of the Republicans for Bernie," he said. "We are going to get our country back and make people happy."