Family celebrations are common topics in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2 and Part 3. This theme frequently appears across different versions of the test and requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to describe events, express emotions, and discuss cultural aspects of celebrations.
IELTS Speaking Test preparation for describing family celebrations
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions in Part 1 related to celebrations include:
- Do you enjoy family celebrations?
- What kind of celebrations are common in your family?
- How do you usually celebrate special occasions?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely adore family celebrations because they give us a chance to strengthen our bonds. In my family, we make it a point to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries in particular. We usually get together at someone’s home and share a feast while catching up with each other’s lives.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Task
Describe a recent family celebration you enjoyed
You should say:
- What the celebration was for
- Where it took place
- Who was there
- And explain why you enjoyed it
describe a party you recently attended
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about my grandmother’s 70th birthday celebration that we held last month. It was a momentous occasion that brought together our entire extended family.
The celebration took place at my parents’ spacious home, which we had beautifully decorated with vintage photographs and fresh flowers. We transformed the garden into an elegant dining area with fairy lights and lanterns.
What made it particularly special was that relatives from across the country made the effort to attend. There were about fifty people, including all my aunts, uncles, cousins, and even some family friends who’ve known my grandmother for decades.
I thoroughly enjoyed this celebration for several reasons. Firstly, it was heartwarming to see my grandmother’s joy as she reminisced about her life journey with everyone. Secondly, we had organized a surprise video montage featuring messages from family members who couldn’t attend. The highlight of the evening was when my grandmother spontaneously started singing her favorite traditional songs, which prompted everyone to join in.”
describe a song that has special meaning to you
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How have family celebrations changed over the years in your country?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Family celebrations have undergone significant changes in recent decades. While the core values remain the same, the way we celebrate has evolved considerably. These days, celebrations tend to be more elaborate and sophisticated, often incorporating modern elements like professional photography and social media sharing. However, I believe we’ve also lost some authenticity in the process, as many celebrations have become more about putting on a show rather than genuine family connection.”
describe a time when you planned an event or gathering
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
Describing Celebrations
- Momentous occasion /məˈməntəs əˈkeɪʒən/ (adj+n): A very important event
- Elaborate /ɪˈlæbərət/ (adj): Involving many careful arrangements
- Heartwarming /ˈhɑːt.wɔːmɪŋ/ (adj): Causing feelings of happiness and pleasure
- Make it a point to (phrase): To do something deliberately
describe a unique gift you received
Examiner’s Tips
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives
- Include personal emotions and reactions
- Provide specific details and examples
- Structure your response with clear organization
- Practice timing to ensure complete answers within the given time
IELTS Speaking assessment criteria and scoring guidelines
Remember to use natural transitions and maintain eye contact with the examiner while speaking. Focus on expressing genuine emotions and personal connections to make your response more authentic and engaging.
