1. What is your favorite celebration or festival?
My favorite celebration is Novruz. It marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. I love its rich traditions, including preparing special dishes, jumping over bonfires, and decorating with fresh flowers and greenery. It’s a time of renewal and joy.
2. How do you usually celebrate special occasions?
I usually celebrate special occasions with family and close friends. We gather for a meal, exchange gifts, and partake in activities that are meaningful for the occasion. The emphasis is on spending quality time together and creating lasting memories.
3. Do you prefer celebrating with family or friends? Why?
I enjoy celebrating with both family and friends, but if I had to choose, I would say family. Celebrations with family tend to be more intimate and heartfelt, while gatherings with friends are often more lively and fun. Both have their unique charm.
4. What is the most memorable celebration you have had?
The most memorable celebration I’ve had was my graduation party. It was a significant milestone in my life, and having all my loved ones there to celebrate my achievements made it incredibly special. The heartfelt speeches and joyful atmosphere left a lasting impression.
5. How do you feel about the commercialization of holidays?
I have mixed feelings about the commercialization of holidays. While it can detract from the true meaning and traditions of the celebrations, it also makes it easier to find festive decorations and gifts. It’s important to balance commercial aspects with genuine, heartfelt observance.
6. What are some traditional celebrations in your country?
In my country, traditional celebrations include Novruz, which marks the Persian New Year, and Independence Day, which commemorates our nation’s independence. Both involve various cultural activities, parades, and family gatherings.
7. Have you ever celebrated a holiday in a different country? How was it?
Yes, I celebrated Christmas in Germany once. It was a wonderful experience, with festive markets, beautifully decorated streets, and traditional foods like mulled wine and gingerbread. The cultural immersion added a new dimension to the holiday spirit.
8. How do you prepare for celebrations?
I prepare for celebrations by planning ahead, decorating the house, and preparing special meals. For larger gatherings, I coordinate with family and friends to ensure everything runs smoothly. I also take time to reflect on the significance of the celebration.
9. What role do food and drink play in your celebrations?
Food and drink play a central role in my celebrations. They bring people together and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Traditional dishes and special treats are often prepared, making the celebration more enjoyable and memorable.
10. How do you feel when a celebration is over?
When a celebration is over, I often feel a mix of contentment and nostalgia. There’s satisfaction in having spent quality time with loved ones, but also a touch of sadness that the joyous occasion has ended. However, the memories created linger on and bring happiness.
Vocabulary for Band 9+ IELTS Speaking
1. Renewal – The process of starting again or being revived
2. Partake – To take part in an activity
3. Intimate – Close and personal
4. Milestone – A significant event or point in development
5. Heartfelt – Sincere and deeply felt
6. Observance – The practice of following a custom or tradition
7. Cultural immersion – The act of fully engaging with and experiencing a different culture
8. Coordinate – To organize and arrange activities
9. Significance – The importance or meaning of something
10. Nostalgia – A sentimental longing for the past