Traditional events and festivals are popular topics in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. Examiners often ask candidates to describe a cultural celebration they have experienced, as it allows them to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to structure a coherent response. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses for different band scores.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about festivals and events to warm you up. Here are some common questions with a sample answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy attending festivals?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I’m quite fond of festivals, especially those that celebrate local culture and traditions. They provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in the community spirit and learn about different customs. I particularly enjoy the lively atmosphere, colorful decorations, and the chance to sample traditional foods that you might not encounter in everyday life.”
Traditional festival celebration with a large crowd
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a traditional event or festival you attended
You should say:
- What the event or festival was
- When and where you attended it
- What you did there
- And explain why you found it interesting or enjoyable
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about the Lunar New Year festival, which is a significant celebration in my country. I attended this festival last year in my hometown.
The Lunar New Year, also known as Tet, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It usually falls in late January or early February and lasts for several days. During this time, people clean and decorate their homes, prepare special foods, and gather with family and friends.
When I attended last year, I participated in many traditional activities. I helped my family clean the house and put up decorations like red banners with lucky messages. We also prepared traditional foods like banh chung, which is a special rice cake. On New Year’s Eve, we went to the local temple to pray for good luck and then watched the fireworks at midnight.
I found this festival very enjoyable because it brought the whole family together. It was a time to relax, eat good food, and catch up with relatives we don’t often see. I also liked the festive atmosphere in the streets, with everyone dressed in new clothes and exchanging good wishes. The traditional customs and rituals made me feel connected to my culture and heritage.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share my experience of attending the Holi festival, a vibrant and exuberant celebration of colors that takes place annually in India. I had the privilege of participating in this spectacular event last March while visiting friends in Mumbai.
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, heralds the arrival of spring and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It’s typically celebrated over two days, with the first evening involving a bonfire ritual called Holika Dahan, followed by the main day of color play.
During my attendance, I was thoroughly immersed in the festivities. On the eve of Holi, I joined locals in gathering around a massive bonfire, where people sang traditional folk songs and performed rituals. The next day was an absolute riot of colors. Armed with water guns and packets of colored powder, I joined the revelry in the streets. It was an incredible experience to see people of all ages dousing each other with vibrant hues, dancing to pulsating music, and sharing traditional sweets.
What made this festival particularly fascinating was its ability to break down social barriers. I observed how it transcended age, social status, and even religious differences, uniting everyone in a spirit of pure joy and camaraderie. The symbolic washing away of past grievances and the welcoming of new beginnings resonated deeply with me. Moreover, the festival’s connection to ancient Hindu mythology added a layer of cultural richness that I found utterly captivating.
The sensory overload of colors, sounds, and tastes, combined with the palpable feeling of unity and happiness, made this an unforgettable experience. It gave me a profound appreciation for Indian culture and the power of communal celebrations in fostering social bonds.”
Holi festival celebration with colorful powder
Follow-up questions:
Examiner: How has this festival changed over the years?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Well, from what I’ve heard from my parents and grandparents, the Lunar New Year festival has changed quite a bit. In the past, it was more focused on traditional rituals and family gatherings. Now, while these aspects are still important, there’s also more emphasis on travel and modern entertainment. Many young people use the holiday to go on vacations, and there are more public events like concerts and fireworks displays in big cities.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The evolution of Holi over the years has been quite remarkable. Traditionally, it was a more intimate affair, celebrated primarily within families and close-knit communities. However, in recent decades, it has transformed into a more expansive and commercialized event. While the core elements of color play and communal bonding remain, there have been significant changes in how it’s celebrated.
One notable shift is the increasing popularity of Holi among non-Indians and tourists, leading to large-scale public celebrations in many countries. This globalization has introduced new elements like music festivals and color runs, which blend traditional aspects with modern entertainment.
Another change is in the materials used. Traditionally, colors were made from natural sources like flowers and herbs. Now, synthetic colors are more common, though there’s a growing movement to return to eco-friendly options due to environmental and health concerns.
Technology has also revolutionized how people participate in Holi. Social media platforms are now flooded with Holi celebrations, allowing people to share their experiences globally and fostering a sense of virtual participation.
Despite these changes, it’s heartening to see that the festival’s essence of joy, unity, and renewal remains intact, adapting to modern times while preserving its cultural significance.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do traditional festivals contribute to a country’s cultural identity?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Traditional festivals play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining a country’s cultural identity. Firstly, they serve as a tangible link to a nation’s history and heritage, allowing people to connect with their roots and understand their cultural background better. These celebrations often encapsulate key aspects of a society’s beliefs, values, and way of life.
Moreover, festivals act as a medium for intergenerational transmission of cultural knowledge. Older members of the community pass down traditions, rituals, and stories to younger generations, ensuring the continuity of cultural practices. This process helps in preserving unique customs and traditions that might otherwise be lost in the face of globalization.
Festivals also foster a sense of community and national pride. When people come together to celebrate, it reinforces their shared identity and strengthens social bonds. This collective experience can be particularly powerful in multicultural societies, where festivals can serve as a unifying force.
Additionally, traditional festivals often showcase a country’s artistic and culinary heritage. Through music, dance, costumes, and food, these events highlight the unique cultural expressions of a nation, contributing to its distinct identity on the global stage.
However, it’s important to note that as societies evolve, so do their festivals. The challenge lies in balancing the preservation of tradition with the need for relevance in modern times. Successful festivals often manage to adapt while retaining their core cultural significance, thus continuing to play a vital role in shaping national identity.”
Traditional dance performance at a cultural festival
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Exuberant /ɪɡˈzjuːbərənt/ (adjective): Filled with or characterized by a lively energy and excitement.
Example: “The exuberant crowd danced through the streets during the carnival.”Heralds /ˈherəldz/ (verb): Announces or signals the approach of.
Example: “The blooming of cherry blossoms heralds the arrival of spring in Japan.”Immersed /ɪˈmɜːrst/ (adjective): Deeply engaged or involved.
Example: “I was completely immersed in the local culture during my stay.”Revelry /ˈrevəlri/ (noun): Lively and noisy festivities, especially when these involve drinking alcohol.
Example: “The New Year’s Eve revelry continued well into the early hours of the morning.”Transcended /trænˈsendɪd/ (verb): Went beyond the usual limits of something; surpassed.
Example: “The music festival transcended cultural boundaries, bringing people from all backgrounds together.”Palpable /ˈpælpəbl/ (adjective): Able to be touched or felt; obvious or tangible.
Example: “There was a palpable sense of excitement in the air as the parade approached.”Fostering /ˈfɒstərɪŋ/ (verb): Encouraging the development of something, especially something desirable.
Example: “Traditional festivals play a key role in fostering community spirit.”Intergenerational /ˌɪntəˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənl/ (adjective): Relating to, involving, or affecting several generations.
Example: “These celebrations provide valuable intergenerational bonding opportunities within families.”
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing traditional events or festivals:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and less common words related to celebrations and culture.
- Provide specific details about the event, such as dates, locations, and particular activities, to make your description vivid and engaging.
- Explain your personal feelings and reflections about the event, demonstrating your ability to express opinions clearly.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and different tenses, to showcase your language proficiency.
- Practice speaking about different festivals and events to improve your fluency and confidence.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, coherence, and natural delivery in your responses.
For more practice, you might want to describe a unique traditional event in your country or describe a cultural event you attended in another country. These exercises will help you expand your vocabulary and improve your ability to discuss cultural topics fluently.