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Conversation Advance · Module 6 · Unit 26

Festivals and Holidays

C1 Advanced

Learning Objectives

In todays lesson, you will talk about festivals and holidays and learn useful vocabulary that you can use in everyday life.

Discussion

Direction: Answer these questions.
  1. What is your favorite holiday tradition from your childhood?
  2. Do you think modern celebrations have become too commercialized?
  3. How do you usually spend your time during major public holidays?

New Words & Expressions

Direction: Listen and repeat these words with your teacher.

  • Commemoration

    noun

    /keˌmemeˈreɪʃən/

    Meaning:A ceremony or celebration in which a person or event is remembered.

    The town held a solemn commemoration for the holiday.

    Real Life Tip:

    Often implies a respectful or historical tone.

  • Festivity

    noun

    /feˈstɪvɪti/

    Meaning:The celebration of something in a joyful and exuberant way.

    The city center was filled with music and holiday festivity.

    Real Life Tip:

    Refers to the general atmosphere of celebration.

  • Gear up

    phrasal verb

    /ɡɪər ʌp/

    Meaning:To prepare for an upcoming event or period of activity.

    We are starting to gear up for the upcoming winter holidays.

    Real Life Tip:

    Commonly used in professional and personal contexts.

  • The more the merrier

    idiom

    /ðə mɔːr ðə ˈmɛriər/

    Meaning:Used to say that an occasion will be more enjoyable if more people are present.

    Bring your friends to our dinner party; the more the merrier!

    Real Life Tip:

    Encourages inclusivity in social gatherings.

  • Blast

    slang

    /blæst/

    Meaning:A very enjoyable and exciting time.

    We had a total blast at the holiday parade yesterday.

    Real Life Tip:

    Used to describe a highly successful event.

Conversation

Direction:

  • Listen carefully as your teacher reads the conversation aloud.
  • Role-play the conversation with your teacher
Daniel and Rachel are planning their holiday schedule and discussing how they want to celebrate this year.
  • Daniel
    I cannot believe we are already starting to gear up for the holidays.
  • Rachel
    I know! The festivity in the neighborhood is already starting to pick up.
  • Daniel
    Are we hosting the family commemoration dinner at our place again?

Q&A

Direction: Answer the questions based on the conversation.
  1. What are Daniel and Rachel starting to prepare for?
  2. Who is Rachel suggesting to invite to their dinner?
  3. How does Daniel feel about the planned gathering?

Exercise

Direction: Choose the correct answer to complete each sentence, then read it aloud. Each question gives you 5 Points.

  1. Which word describes a ceremony of remembrance?

  2. What does the more the merrier mean?

  3. We are ____ up for the festival next month.

  4. The concert was a total ____.

  5. merrier / the / more / the

  6. for / gear / up / holidays / we

Ask Your Teacher

Direction: Ask your teacher these questions.
  1. Why is commemoration an important part of national holidays?
  2. What is the best way to handle the stress when gearing up for big events?
  3. Do you agree that the more the merrier when it comes to hosting parties?

Your Time To Speak

Direction: Answer using the language you have learned in this lesson. Talk about yourself!
  1. What is the difference between a holiday and a festival?
  2. How do I prepare for a large festivity without getting stressed?
  3. What are some common ways people gear up for holidays in the US?
  4. Why do some cultures focus on commemoration during festivals?
  5. Is it always true that the more the merrier?
  6. How do I politely decline an invitation to a large party?
  7. What makes a party a blast in your opinion?
  8. How do I keep my holiday traditions original?
  9. Should I prioritize commemoration or festivity during celebrations?
  10. How can I involve my community in my holiday planning?
Rachel
Yes, and I was thinking of inviting your cousins too. The more the merrier!
  • Daniel
    That sounds like a great idea. It will be a blast having everyone together.
  • Rachel
    I just want to make sure the house is ready for the influx of guests.
  • Daniel
    We will be fine. Let us just focus on keeping the stress levels low.
  • Rachel
    Agreed. Let us make some lists and start shopping.