A question about describing festivals frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, especially during festive seasons. This topic allows candidates to demonstrate their cultural knowledge while showcasing their English language abilities. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions in this section include:
- Do you enjoy festivals?
- What’s your favorite festival?
- How do people celebrate festivals in your country?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely adore festivals, especially Lunar New Year, which is the biggest celebration in my culture. It’s a time when families come together to share traditional meals and participate in meaningful customs. What makes it particularly special is the sense of joy and anticipation that fills the air during the celebration period.”
describe a festival in your culture that you enjoy celebrating
Part 2: Cue Card
Your task is to describe a local festival you enjoy celebrating. You should say:
- What the festival is
- When it takes place
- How people celebrate it
- And explain why you enjoy this festival
Vietnamese family celebrating Lunar New Year with traditional decorations and food
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share my experience about Lunar New Year, or Tet as we call it in Vietnam. This magnificent celebration takes place in late January or early February, following the lunar calendar.
What makes this festival truly special is its rich blend of traditions and modern celebrations. During this time, families thoroughly clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and decorate with vibrant red and yellow colors. One of the most cherished customs is giving lucky money in red envelopes to children and elderly relatives.
describe a time you experienced a cultural festival
What I find particularly fascinating about this festival is how it brings entire communities together. The atmosphere is absolutely electric with traditional music, dragon dances, and the constant sound of fireworks. The most meaningful aspect for me is the family reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve, where we gather to share traditional dishes and express our hopes for the coming year.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How have festivals changed over the years in your country?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“There’s been a significant transformation in how festivals are celebrated nowadays. While the core values remain intact, the way people observe traditions has evolved considerably. One notable change is the increasing influence of social media, where people share festival moments instantly. However, I believe this digital evolution has actually helped preserve cultural heritage by making younger generations more aware and engaged with traditional practices.”
describe a favorite tradition in your family
Q: Do you think traditional festivals will survive in the future?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m quite optimistic about the survival of traditional festivals. Despite modernization, these celebrations serve as crucial cultural anchors that help people maintain their identity. What’s particularly encouraging is how festivals are adapting to contemporary life while preserving their essential meaning. We’re witnessing a fascinating blend of traditional values and modern interpretations.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Cultural heritage (n.) – traditions passed down through generations
- Time-honored tradition (adj. + n.) – respected customs that have existed for a long time
- Festive atmosphere (adj. + n.) – the special feeling during celebrations
- Community bonding (n.) – people coming together and forming connections
- Cultural significance (n.) – importance in terms of culture and tradition
describe a festival in your country you enjoy celebrating
Modern celebration of traditional festival with both old and new elements
Remember to use these expressions naturally and support them with personal examples to achieve a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
