Cue Card
Describe a festival that you enjoyed the most.
You should say:
– What the festival is
– When and where it is celebrated
– What people do during the festival
And explain why you enjoyed it so much.
Sample Band 8+ Answer
One of the festivals I’ve enjoyed the most is Tet, which is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It’s the biggest and most meaningful celebration in Vietnam, marking the start of a new year based on the lunar calendar. Tet usually falls around late January or early February, depending on the year.
In the weeks leading up to Tet, people get really busy cleaning and decorating their homes with kumquat trees, peach blossoms, and red decorations, because these items are believed to bring good fortune and happiness. Markets are full of festive energy, and you can smell traditional dishes like sticky rice cakes (bánh chưng) everywhere.
During the holiday itself, families gather to celebrate together. On New Year’s Eve, there are fireworks, traditional performances, and everyone stays up late to welcome the new year. On the following days, people visit relatives, give lucky money in red envelopes to children, and exchange good wishes like “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới,” meaning “Happy New Year.”
What I love most about Tet is the sense of togetherness. Everyone seems more cheerful and optimistic. It’s also the one time of the year when life slows down — no work, no school, just pure family time. I especially enjoy the delicious food, the colorful atmosphere, and the chance to reflect on the past year while hoping for better things ahead.
In short, Tet is more than just a festival; it’s a beautiful tradition that reminds me of the importance of family, gratitude, and fresh beginnings. That’s why it’s my favorite celebration and the one I look forward to the most every year.
Discussion Questions & Answers
Part 3 focuses on deeper, analytical questions related to traditions, culture, and social meaning. Your answers should be longer, more reflective, and show critical thinking.
1. Why do you think festivals are important for society?
Festivals play a vital role in bringing people together and strengthening social bonds. They allow communities to celebrate shared values, beliefs, and traditions, which helps preserve cultural identity. Moreover, festivals give people a sense of belonging and happiness, creating a break from their routine. I also think festivals promote unity — regardless of age, background, or religion, people come together to celebrate something meaningful.
2. How have traditional festivals changed in recent years?
Traditional festivals have changed quite a lot due to modernization and globalization. For example, many people now celebrate festivals in a more commercial way — focusing on shopping, entertainment, or travel rather than cultural values. Decorations and activities might be more modern, and social media has also influenced how people share and experience festivals. However, I think these changes aren’t entirely negative — they make festivals more accessible and exciting, especially for younger generations.
3. Do you think people spend too much money on festivals?
Yes, in some cases, people do spend excessively on festivals. They often feel social pressure to buy expensive gifts, new clothes, or luxurious decorations. While it’s understandable to want to celebrate in style, I believe the true meaning of a festival lies in spending quality time with loved ones, not in material things. Moderation is important — festivals should bring joy, not financial stress.
4. Should children learn about festivals from other countries?
Absolutely. Learning about international festivals helps children become more open-minded and respectful toward other cultures. It teaches them that while customs may differ, the purpose of celebration — love, gratitude, and togetherness — is universal. This kind of cultural understanding is especially important in today’s globalized world, where people from different backgrounds often live and work together.
5. Do you think technology has influenced how people celebrate festivals?
Definitely. Technology has changed the way we celebrate festivals in many ways. For example, people now use social media to send greetings, share photos, or even attend virtual celebrations. Online shopping has also made it easier to buy gifts and decorations. While this convenience is great, it can sometimes reduce personal interaction. In my opinion, technology should support the celebration — not replace the human connection that festivals are meant to create.
