Describe a public holiday that people enjoy.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What public holiday is it ?
How is it celebrated?
What you do during that time?

50 unique answers with expert feedback

What other public holidays are popular in Tamil Nadu?

Apart from Pongal, other popular public holidays in Tamil Nadu include Diwali, Tamil New Year, and Independence Day. Each of these holidays has its own unique customs and traditions that people celebrate with family and friends.

How do you think public holidays strengthen family bonds?

Public holidays like Pongal provide an opportunity for families to come together, share meals, and create lasting memories. These gatherings help strengthen relationships and foster a sense of belonging among family members.

What are some traditional foods prepared during Pongal?

During Pongal, traditional foods like sweet Pongal made from rice and jaggery, as well as various savory dishes, are prepared. These dishes are often shared among family and friends, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Band 7

00:00

A public holiday that people enjoy in my country is Diwali. It is considered to be the festival of lights. It is one of my most favorite holiday because I get to spend it with my family. I visit home during Diwali and it is the one time of the year where I can just kick back and relax and not worry about anything. We celebrate it with some traditional rituals that we have been following for years in my country. We start off with puja and then children as well as the adults, we light up firecrackers. It's a very fun time and I personally love Diwali because it allows me to hang out with my old friends because everyone visits home that time. It gives me plenty of time to catch up with them and just to be able to find out what's been going on with everyone. Moreover, it allows me to devour on endless sweets guilt free. I can just put on some holiday weight and no one is going to judge me because everyone is in the same boat as I am. That is another reason that I love Diwali so much. I also have a very personal connection to it as I am sure every Indian does because this is the one festival that everyone spends with their family and everyone has a different memory attached to it. It just makes me very nostalgic to think about it but every year I make a different memory. I just keep going back to my childhood and I think Diwali is the one festival that people love celebrating in my country.

Follow up questions

What other public holidays are popular in your country?

In addition to Diwali, other popular public holidays in my country include Holi, Eid, and Christmas. Each of these holidays has its own unique traditions and celebrations, and they are all enjoyed by people across different communities.

How do people prepare for Diwali in your community?

People in my community prepare for Diwali by cleaning their homes, buying new clothes, and decorating with lights and rangoli. Many also prepare special sweets and snacks to share with family and friends, creating a festive atmosphere.

What is your favorite memory from a past Diwali celebration?

One of my favorite memories from past Diwali celebrations is when my entire family gathered at my grandparents' house. We spent the evening lighting diyas, sharing stories, and enjoying a feast together. The laughter and joy we shared made it truly special.

Band 7

00:00

The most famous public holiday that people enjoy in our country is the festival of Diwali also known as festival of lights. And the reason this festival is celebrated is because when Lord Ram returned after 14 years of exile to his kingdom, he was celebrated by the people of his kingdom. Furthermore, the people lighted diyas in the happiness of the return of their king. So that is why this festival is known as the festival of lights. It is celebrated usually in the month of October or November, depending on the Hindu calendar. And majority of the population in India being Hindu, this festival is celebrated with a lot of happiness and pride. People generally wear new clothes, share sweets amongst themselves, and children are known to be bursting firecrackers during this holiday. This is also kind of seen as a Hindu New Year.

Follow up questions

What other festivals are celebrated in India?

In addition to Diwali, India celebrates many other festivals such as Holi, Eid, Christmas, and Pongal. Each festival has its own significance and traditions, showcasing the country's diverse culture. For instance, Holi is known as the festival of colors, while Eid is celebrated by the Muslim community with prayers and feasting.

How do people prepare for Diwali?

Preparation for Diwali usually begins weeks in advance. People clean and decorate their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare special sweets and snacks. Many also purchase gifts for family and friends. The night before Diwali, families often perform rituals to invite prosperity and happiness into their homes.

What impact does Diwali have on local businesses?

Diwali has a significant positive impact on local businesses, especially in retail and hospitality. Many shops see a surge in sales as people buy gifts, decorations, and festive foods. Additionally, restaurants and catering services often experience increased demand for special Diwali meals and sweets.

Practice other cue cards

Describe a place in your city you have been to where you can see wildlife (eg, animals, birds, insects, plants)

View answers

Describe a city that is very interesting.

View answers

Describe a place in your hometown/city that is different from other places and that you enjoy visiting with your parents/friends.

View answers

Describe an aquatic animal.

View answers

Describe a place you visited where the air was polluted

View answers

Describe a time when you were fascinated with another culture.

View answers

Describe a place that you would like to learn the culture there (eg, a library, museum, theatre)

View answers

Describe Your Favourite Season

View answers

Describe A New Development In Your Country Or The Area Where You Live (Like A Shopping Centre, Park, Etc.)

View answers

Describe A Person Who Likes To Grow Plants

View answers

Describe an interesting traditional story

View answers

Describe A Time When You Saw A Lot Of Plastic Waste

View answers

Describe an important river/lake in your country

View answers

Describe A Crop You Are Familiar With

View answers

Describe a change that benefitted your neighborhood.

View answers

Describe a time when you saw something in the sky

View answers

Describe a person who helps to protect the environment

View answers

Describe a unique animal you've encountered.

View answers

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language.

View answers

Describe a wild animal that you want to learn more about

View answers

Describe a natural place (e.g. parks, mountains)

View answers

Describe an important plant in your country

View answers

Talk About A Traditional Object Of Your Country

View answers

Describe a place in your city you have been to where you can see wildlife (e.g. animals, birds, insects, plants)

View answers

Describe an old tree that you have seen.

View answers

Describe A Street Market In Your City

View answers

Describe A Foreign Country You Have Never Been To

View answers

Describe A Historical Place That You Know About

View answers

Describe A Poisonous Plant You Know About

View answers

Describe a park or a garden in your city

View answers

Describe A Festival That Is Important In Your Country

View answers

Describe a place where there was a lot of noise/ Describe a noisy place you have been to

View answers

Describe A Quiet Place

View answers

Describe a public park or garden.

View answers

Describe an event you attended in which you didn’t like the music played

View answers

Band 7

00:00

I would like to describe the public holiday that falls on Diwali. Diwali is a festival full of lights, colors, new clothes and fireworks. All the offices in India or any kind of work has a holiday when it's Diwali. Additionally, not only in India but this festival is nowadays celebrated all over the globe. There are so many countries, for example, Malaysia, UK, US, who celebrate Diwali and some parts of these countries also experience a public holiday, also observe a public holiday. During Diwali, typically me and my family would like to go for a shopping, buy new clothes, buy new lights and decorate our house with lights, flowers, vibrant colors and rangoli. I would like to describe what a rangoli is because it's very special to my heart. A rangoli is created by powdered colors on the floor and with some typical Indian patterns. I love this festival because this brings us a lot of joy, get together with our family and friends and a lot of fun.

Follow up questions

What other festivals are celebrated in your country?

In addition to Diwali, India celebrates many festivals like Holi, Eid, Christmas, and Pongal. Each festival has its own significance and traditions, bringing people together to celebrate with family and friends, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the country.

How do people prepare for Diwali in your community?

In my community, preparations for Diwali start weeks in advance. People clean their homes, buy new clothes, and stock up on sweets and snacks. Many also decorate their homes with lights and diyas, and some even create elaborate rangoli designs at their doorsteps to welcome guests.

What is the significance of Diwali in your culture?

Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and hope. Families come together to celebrate, exchange gifts, and share meals, reinforcing bonds and spreading joy within the community.

Band 6-7

00:00

The public holiday that I enjoy the most is the new year's day because it's the end of the year right, everybody wants to make new year resolutions and they want to start a new life because it's a new day of the year. So everybody think of it as a way that if they are going to stay consistent on that one day it will lead for the coming days too. So yeah, the new year's day is the public holiday that everyone enjoy. People tend to celebrate with their family members and their friends and everyone. Actually in my friends, we used to celebrate it such a way like we used to collect some money from my friends and then we pool it together and we buy some things, we will invest you know on food and drinks and we will plan a karaoke and we will dance for some time and then until too well, when it fits too well, we will celebrate with loud noises and we also firecrackers too and yeah, we wish each other a new year, happy new year and I try to message my closest and dearest ones who are not with me, who are in abroad studying, I wish them over phone or I'll drop them message wishing happy new year. And we spend time with family on the new year.

Follow up questions

What are some common traditions people follow on New Year's Day?

Common traditions include making resolutions, celebrating with family and friends, and enjoying fireworks. Many people also attend parties, share meals, and participate in cultural rituals that symbolize new beginnings and hope for the year ahead.

How do you think New Year's celebrations differ around the world?

New Year's celebrations vary globally; for instance, in Japan, people visit shrines, while in Spain, it's traditional to eat 12 grapes at midnight. Each culture has unique customs that reflect their values and beliefs about the new year.

Why do you think making resolutions is important for people?

Making resolutions can motivate individuals to set goals and improve their lives. It provides a fresh start and encourages self-reflection, helping people to focus on personal growth and positive changes they want to achieve in the coming year.

Show all 50 answers

Cue 1:What public holiday is it?

Begin by naming the holiday and providing a brief background about its significance.
Mention why this holiday is particularly enjoyed by people in your community.

Example

The public holiday I would like to talk about is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. It is celebrated by millions of people across India and signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

Cue 2:How is it celebrated?

Describe the various traditions and activities associated with the holiday.
Include details about decorations, food, and any special events that take place.

Example

Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People decorate their homes with colorful rangoli designs and lights. Families gather to perform puja (prayers) to Goddess Lakshmi, and the evening is filled with fireworks, which light up the night sky.

Cue 3:What you do during that time?

Share your personal experiences and activities you engage in during the holiday.
Mention any special memories or traditions that are important to you and your family.

Example

During Diwali, I spend time with my family preparing sweets and snacks. We also visit relatives and exchange gifts. One of my favorite memories is the family gathering where we light diyas (oil lamps) together, creating a beautiful atmosphere of joy and togetherness.

Conclusion

Summarize the significance of the holiday and its impact on people's lives.
Express your feelings about the holiday and why it is meaningful to you.

Example

In conclusion, Diwali is not just a holiday; it is a time of joy, love, and togetherness. It brings families closer and allows us to celebrate our culture and traditions. I cherish this holiday deeply as it fills my heart with happiness and gratitude.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Being Too Vague

Candidates often give very general answers without specific details. This can make the response less engaging and informative.

Tip

Include specific examples and personal experiences related to the holiday to make your answer more vivid and interesting.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Some candidates forget to address all the cues provided, which can lead to an incomplete answer and lower scores.

Tip

Make sure to answer all the cues: the holiday, how it is celebrated, and what you do during that time.

Overly Complicated Language

Using complex vocabulary or long sentences can confuse the listener and detract from the clarity of your message.

Tip

Use clear and simple language to express your ideas, ensuring that your answer is easy to understand.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week

Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS

Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

Answer

I like to taste different types of cuisine. Here I would like to talk about my favorite dish at my traditional festival of Onam which is Sadya. Sadya is popular in my city. We are experimenting these cuisines on Onam festival day. Onam is a famous festival in my city. All family members get together in my home and we make a delicious Sadya. There are many ingredients includes that Sadya. Moreover, we make a big feast that day as well as we create a lot of memories together and we wear that day the traditional dress called Sari and men wear the Dhotis. That festival is really important to us because the whole day we are conducting different kinds of games at our homes and all the family members came together. It's a memorable day in my life. This is the festival. We are making the Sambar and Aviyal. These all the kinds of foods are making with the vegetables.

Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

Sector 34 Test Centre, Chandigarh

Answer

The toy which I liked in my childhood was a panda doll, which makes me pleasant and makes me more blush. The pandas are the most beautiful creatures of the world, which looks gigantic and has pooshy cheeks and they are like stars in the clouds and they dream in me. Furthermore, these have been given by my father. My father is a very very beautiful artistic person, who makes me think of that. Every day you will face every difficulties and make you suffer and move forward. Pandas are always seen in Japanese countries. It is my lifelong dream to visit a Japanese country and click a photo with the original pandas, which makes sounds better.

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

As India is a very large country full of diversity, so there are many places which have their own language and speak their native language. The place which I visited and I didn't know about their language was Leladakh, which is about 300 km away from my hometown and it is a very good place as it consists of different kind of trees, animals and have many scenic views and I visited over there last year in summers as it was the best time to visit because it has many, it was cold over there and we had summers in our area so it was the best time to visit over there and I went over there with my whole family.

Describe a time when your friend damaged something you owned

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

Answer

When I was a kid, I had a little pencil box which had these four buttons which gave the pencil box an operative use. When you press the button, the box would open up. When you press the second button, a little part of it would slide out. Basically it was just a little electronical and a fun thing to have and I owned it when I was in 6th. One day after break, I was standing and talking there with one of my friends and another friend of mine was running through the hallway and accidentally she pushed my shoulder and my pencil box hit the ground and it broke into multiple pieces to the point that it was not functional anymore.

Describe a book you recently read

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

Answer

It Ends With Us is a book I read recently. It's by the author Colleen Hoare. It's mainly a story about two teenagers, Atlas and Lily, and how they just handle their life going through high school, adolescence, and just domestic violence at home. Both of them come from very, very different families. However, they have one common determining factor between them, which is domestic violence. The abuse that they've seen their moms go through is just insane, and they connect through that on a different level. They're actually in the same high school, but they never speak to each other until Atlas actually crashes into an empty house next to Lily's villa. When Atlas is homeless and he doesn't have anywhere to go, he just comes and breaks into the house next to Lily's, and Lily helps him with all the daily necessities like clothes and food, medicines and stuff. Furthermore, their friendship blossoms into love, but it doesn't really fructify as Atlas has to leave. This book really gave me a lot of knowledge about domestic abuse and how to deal with it.