Shivaree
A North American version of the charivari, a noisy serenade for newlyweds.
Also: chivaree, serenade
Shivaree is the North American form of the French charivari, found across the United States and Canada, especially in the Midwest, the South and Quebec. After the wedding, friends and neighbours come to the couple's home in the evening, banging pots, shouting and ringing bells, and the couple are expected to treat them to food and drink. It was once sometimes rough, and used to mock unwelcome marriages, but the later form was a friendly surprise party. The custom has mostly faded, but the word survives.
Region: North America