As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ve listened to countless responses about public events. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and is likely to remain popular. In this article, I’ll provide expert guidance on how to excel when describing a recent public event you attended.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

The examiner may start with some general questions about public events:

• Do you enjoy attending public events?
• What types of public events are popular in your country?
• Have you been to any public events recently?

Here’s a sample answer for the last question:

“Yes, I recently attended a food festival in my city. It was a vibrant event showcasing local cuisines and international dishes. The atmosphere was lively, with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live music. It was a great opportunity to sample diverse flavors and immerse myself in the culinary culture of different regions.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Sample Cue Card

Describe a public event you attended recently.
You should say:

• What the event was
• Where and when it took place
• Who you went with
• And explain why you enjoyed it or not

You have one minute to prepare. You should speak for 1-2 minutes.

Sample Answers

Band 6-7 Answer:

“I recently attended a music festival in my city. It took place last month in the central park. I went with a group of friends from university. The event featured various local and international bands performing on multiple stages throughout the day and night.

I really enjoyed the festival because of the diverse range of music genres represented. There were rock bands, pop singers, and even some classical performances. The atmosphere was electric, with thousands of people coming together to enjoy the music.

One of the highlights for me was seeing my favorite local band perform live for the first time. Their energy on stage was incredible and got the whole crowd dancing.

Another aspect I appreciated was the food vendors offering a variety of cuisines. It was great to try different snacks while listening to music.

Overall, it was a memorable experience that allowed me to discover new artists and spend quality time with friends in a festive environment.”

Band 8-9 Answer:

“I had the pleasure of attending a captivating cultural festival in my city’s historic district last month. This annual extravaganza showcases the rich tapestry of our region’s heritage through art, music, dance, and culinary traditions. I went with a diverse group of friends, including some international students eager to immerse themselves in local culture.

The event was a sensory feast, with vibrant performances taking place on multiple stages scattered throughout the old town’s charming cobblestone streets. What truly set this festival apart was its seamless blend of traditional and contemporary elements. For instance, I was mesmerized by a fusion performance that combined classical folk dance with modern choreography, accompanied by an orchestra playing both ancient and electronic instruments.

One of the highlights was the interactive artisan workshops, where I had the opportunity to try my hand at traditional pottery making. This hands-on experience gave me a newfound appreciation for the skill and artistry involved in preserving our cultural heritage.

The festival also served as a platform for cultural exchange. I particularly enjoyed engaging in thought-provoking discussions with visitors from different backgrounds at the international food bazaar, where we sampled an array of exotic dishes while sharing stories about our respective cultures.

What made this event truly special was its ability to foster a sense of community and celebrate diversity while honoring our shared history. It was a poignant reminder of how public events can bring people together, transcend boundaries, and create lasting memories.”

Cultural Festival

Follow-up Questions

1. How did the event impact the local community?
2. Do you think such events are important for society? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer:

“The event had a positive impact on the local community. It brought people together and created a sense of unity. Many local businesses benefited from the increased foot traffic. I think these events are important for society because they provide entertainment and help preserve cultural traditions.”

Band 8-9 Answer:

“The festival had a multifaceted impact on our local community. Economically, it provided a significant boost to small businesses and artisans who showcased their products. Culturally, it served as a catalyst for preserving and promoting our heritage, especially among younger generations who might otherwise be disconnected from their roots.

I believe such events play a crucial role in societal development. They foster social cohesion by bringing diverse groups together in a celebratory atmosphere. Moreover, they serve as platforms for cultural exchange and mutual understanding, which is increasingly important in our globalized world. These events also stimulate creativity and innovation by encouraging artists and performers to push boundaries and create new forms of expression that blend tradition with modernity.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk about the impact of public events on cities.

Question: How do large public events affect urban infrastructure?

Band 6-7 Answer:

“Large public events can put a strain on urban infrastructure. They often lead to traffic congestion and overcrowding on public transport. However, they can also bring benefits, such as improvements to venues and facilities that host these events. Cities might upgrade their transportation systems or build new facilities to accommodate large crowds.”

Band 8-9 Answer:

“Large-scale public events can have a profound and multifaceted impact on urban infrastructure. On one hand, they can exert significant pressure on existing systems, particularly transportation networks and public utilities. This strain often highlights infrastructural weaknesses, prompting city planners to address long-standing issues.

Conversely, these events can serve as catalysts for urban development and modernization. Many cities use high-profile events as opportunities to undertake ambitious infrastructure projects, such as expanding public transportation, revitalizing neglected areas, or constructing state-of-the-art facilities. These improvements often leave a lasting legacy that benefits residents long after the event concludes.

Moreover, the preparation for such events can accelerate the adoption of smart city technologies, like improved traffic management systems or sustainable energy solutions. This can lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly urban environments in the long term.

However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between event-driven development and the everyday needs of residents. Thoughtful planning is essential to ensure that infrastructure improvements align with the city’s long-term vision and don’t become white elephants post-event.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Captivating (adjective) /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ – fascinating or attractive
   Example: The captivating performances kept the audience enthralled throughout the event.

2. Extravaganza (noun) /ɪkˌstrævəˈɡænzə/ – a spectacular and elaborate event
   Example: The cultural festival was a true extravaganza, featuring performances from around the world.

3. Immerse (verb) /ɪˈmɜːrs/ – to involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest
   Example: The interactive exhibits allowed visitors to immerse themselves in different cultures.

4. Sensory feast (noun phrase) – an experience that stimulates multiple senses
   Example: The food festival was a sensory feast, with aromas, flavors, and vibrant colors at every turn.

5. Seamless blend (noun phrase) – a smooth combination of different elements
   Example: The event offered a seamless blend of traditional and modern entertainment.

6. Mesmerize (verb) /ˈmezməraɪz/ – to capture one’s complete attention
   Example: The intricate dance performances mesmerized the audience.

7. Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstər/ – to encourage the development of something
   Example: These events foster a sense of community among diverse groups of people.

8. Transcend boundaries (phrase) – to go beyond typical limits or divisions
   Example: Music has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a public event:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and idiomatic expressions.
2. Demonstrate your ability to use complex grammatical structures accurately.
3. Provide specific details and examples to support your points.
4. Show your capacity for critical thinking by discussing the event’s impact and significance.
5. Maintain fluency by speaking confidently and at a natural pace.
6. Practice describing various types of public events to expand your repertoire.

Remember, the key to success is not just in memorizing answers, but in developing the ability to speak naturally and thoughtfully about a wide range of topics.

For more IELTS speaking practice, you might find it helpful to describe a place that you would recommend to a friend or discuss a recent environmental issue in your country. These topics can help you broaden your vocabulary and improve your ability to discuss various aspects of society and culture.