IELTS Speaking Part 2 Question:

Describe a tradition or festival that is important in your country. You should say:

  • what the tradition or festival is
  • when it takes place
  • what customs are associated with it
  • and why it is significant to your country's culture.

 

Answer #1

One of the most important festivals in my country is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. It typically takes place in October or November, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival lasts for five days, with the main day falling on the third day. During Diwali, people decorate their homes with lights, lamps, and rangolis (decorative patterns made with colored powders). People also purchase new clothes, clean their homes, and prepare traditional sweets and snacks. On the night of Diwali, people light diyas (small oil lamps) and place them around their homes and on balconies. Diwali is significant to Indian culture because it celebrates the triumph of good over evil. According to legend, Lord Rama, a revered figure in Hinduism, returned to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. The lighting of lamps during Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. The festival also represents the beginning of the Hindu New Year, making it an important time for reflection and renewal.

Answer #2

In my country, Eid al-Fitr is an important festival celebrated by Muslims all over the world. It takes place at the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting in the Islamic calendar. The exact date of Eid al-Fitr depends on the sighting of the new moon. During Eid al-Fitr, Muslims gather with family and friends to pray, exchange gifts, and share meals. They often wear new clothes and decorate their homes with colorful lights and ornaments. Many also give to charity, known as zakat al-fitr, which helps those in need. Eid al-Fitr is significant to Muslim culture because it marks the end of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It is a time to celebrate with loved ones and to thank Allah for the blessings received throughout the year. The festival also promotes unity and brotherhood, as people come together regardless of their social status, ethnicity, or nationality.

Answer #3

The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is an important festival in my country. It takes place between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival lasts for 15 days, with the first day being the most significant. During Lunar New Year, people clean their homes, decorate with red and gold ornaments, and wear new clothes. They also prepare traditional foods such as dumplings and rice cakes. The festival is celebrated with dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, and parades. Lunar New Year is significant to Chinese culture because it marks the beginning of a new year and the end of the winter season. It is a time for reunion and family gatherings, as many people travel back to their hometowns to be with their loved ones. The festival also symbolizes good luck and prosperity, with red envelopes filled with money being given to children and unmarried adults.

Answer #4

The Songkran Festival, also known as the Thai New Year, is an important festival in Thailand. It takes place from April 13th to April 15th, and is celebrated with water fights and parades. During Songkran, people pour water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and purification. They also visit temples to make offerings and receive blessings from monks. Many also build sand stupas, which are miniature replicas of Buddhist temples. Songkran is significant to Thai culture because it marks the beginning of the new year and the start of the hot season. It is a time to let go of the past and to make new resolutions for the future. The festival also represents the importance of community and family, as people come together to celebrate and honor their traditions.

Answer #5

One of the most significant festivals in my country is the Day of the Dead, also known as Dia de los Muertos. It takes place on November 1st and 2nd and is celebrated throughout Mexico and in many other parts of the world. During the Day of the Dead, people honor their deceased loved ones by creating altars called ofrendas. These altars are decorated with flowers, candles, and offerings of food and drink. People also paint their faces to resemble skulls and participate in parades and other festivities. The Day of the Dead is significant to Mexican culture because it celebrates the cycle of life and death. It is a time to remember and honor those who have passed away, and to acknowledge death as a natural part of life. The festival also represents the blending of indigenous and Catholic traditions, highlighting Mexico's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the Day of the Dead has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, further emphasizing its importance to Mexican culture and the world at large.