barn raising

(in rural areas) a party, usually providing food, drink, etc., for the purpose of assisting a neighbor to put up a new barn.

Origin of barn raising

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

One of the settlers has to-day a "barn-raising frolic," and thither they are bound.

Sketches And Tales Illustrative Of Life In The Backwoods Of New Brunswick |Mrs. F. Beavan
The preliminary work of a barn-raising is done in the winter months, when the timber for the frame is felled and squared.

In Pastures Green |Peter McArthur
On the day of Olaf Ericson's barn-raising, his wife, for once in a way, rose early.

The Troll Garden and Selected Stories |Willa Cather
It was like pioneer days, when "barn-raising" and "bees" made life worth while in a wild, stern land.

Wayside Courtships |Hamlin Garland

It's all about the barn-raising after we got home to the ranch.

A Man in the Open |Roger Pocock