Thousands turn out for the unofficial Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day | News

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WECT/CNN) – If you're planning to grab a quick bite from Chick-fil-A Wednesday, be prepared to wait in line. More than 600,000 people on Facebook accepted an invitation to take part in the unofficial Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day.

WECT has received dozens of phone calls from viewers describing the turnout for this event. In Monkey Junction, so many people were at the fast food restaurant they had to park in the old O'Charley's parking lot next door.

In Mayfaire there were reports of hundreds of people waiting in line to "Eat Mor Chikin."

"Waited in the longest drive thru line ever today!," Mark Pepper posted on Facebook. "Was glad to do it to show support for another Christian."

Last week, Reverend Billy Graham announced he would step out in support of the business by visiting a Chick-fil-A in his area. Graham is a strong advocate for the biblical definition of marriage.

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee created the event in light of the recent controversy surrounding statements made by the chain's president.

Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy recently said he believes in the Biblical definition of marriage, meaning it is a union between a man and a woman. He also said he loves and respects anyone who disagrees.

Supporters of same-sex marriage have accused the chain of discrimination and are calling for a boycott. Chick-fil-A said it does not discriminate against anyone.

The controversy is creating a lot of buzz on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. It seems that people on both sides of the argument just can't get enough.

WECT Facebook Fan Jon Landers said he was going to support Chick-fil-A Wednesday and "hopes it's so packed that they'll be out of food when I get there."

Others against the statements made by the president are also speaking out. Michael Gardner posted that he and over 50 friends were headed to the restaurants to order water.

"So all of you who eat there today support them correct? You support them giving money to groups that hate gays correct? You support them because they are a company that gives their opinion correct? I will be there today will over 50 friends to get water hope you like the long lines," Gardner posted.

Click here to join the conversation now on WECT's Facebook page.

Copyright 2012 WECT. All rights reserved.CNN contributed to this report.