Ep 20. The Shivaree

In The Waltons season 3 episode 20, titled "The Shivaree," the Walton family and their community are excitedly preparing for the upcoming wedding of local farmer Harley Foster and Miss Emily Baldwin. However, when Harley's rowdy and mischievous friends start planning a shivaree (a traditional celebration involving noisy, disruptive behavior to celebrate a newlywed couple), the Waltons and Miss Emily's family quickly become nervous.

The tension builds as the shivaree draws closer, and the families contemplate the potential damage the rowdy celebration could cause. The tension continues to rise when John Walton confronts Harley about his friends' plans, and a disagreement ensues between the two men.

Meanwhile, Miss Emily becomes increasingly anxious about the shivaree, fearing the loud noises and disruption will cause her mother's health to deteriorate. Despite her reservations, she joins in the preparations for the celebration, hoping to appease Harley's friends and avoid conflict.

As the night of the shivaree approaches, the Waltons and Miss Emily's family decide to make a stand and attempt to stop the celebration. However, they soon realize that the rowdy guests may not leave easily, and the situation becomes more dangerous than anyone anticipated.

The episode explores themes of community and tradition, as well as the tension between individual desires and the expectations of society. The Waltons struggle to balance their own beliefs with the traditions of their community, while also grappling with the potential consequences of standing up against those traditions.

Overall, "The Shivaree" is a compelling episode that showcases both the strength and the struggles of the Walton family, and their ability to come together in the face of adversity.