{"id":253,"date":"2022-04-01T15:52:16","date_gmt":"2022-04-01T15:52:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.hcfl.edu\/speechcomm\/chapter\/types-of-special-occasion-speeches\/"},"modified":"2026-07-22T19:18:26","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T19:18:26","slug":"types-of-special-occasion-speeches","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.hcfl.edu\/speechcomm\/chapter\/types-of-special-occasion-speeches\/","title":{"raw":"14.2 Types of Special Occasion Speeches","rendered":"14.2 Types of Special Occasion Speeches"},"content":{"raw":"
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14.2 Types of Special Occasion Speeches<\/h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1470\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"A Photograph by FORJA2 MX via Unsplash.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nSpecial occasion speeches are more flexible than informative or persuasive speeches. They allow for a wider range of topics, events, and speaking styles, depending on the situation. Because of this flexibility, there are many different types of special occasion speeches you might give.\r\n\r\nFor that reason, this section covers a variety of special occasion speeches and provides guidance to help you feel confident and prepared whenever you are called on to speak.\r\n

Speeches of Introduction<\/h3>\r\nThe first type of special occasion speech is the [pb_glossary id=\"716\"]speech of introduction[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>, which is a mini speech given by the host of a ceremony that introduces another speaker and their speech.\r\n\r\nFew things are worse than when the introducer of a speaker stands up and says, \u201cThis is Wyatt Ford. He\u2019s going to talk about stress.\u201d While we did learn the speaker\u2019s name and the topic, the introduction falls flat. Audiences will not be excited about listening to Wyatt\u2019s speech.\r\n\r\nLike any other speech, a speech of introduction should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, but it should be brief and focused<\/strong>. The goal is not to talk about yourself, but to introduce the speaker and get the audience ready to listen.\r\n\r\nIn the introduction<\/strong>, start with a strong hook that grabs the audience\u2019s attention and builds interest in the speaker. This could be an interesting fact, a short story, or a statement that highlights why the speaker is worth listening to.\r\n\r\nThe body<\/strong> of your speech should cover three main things:\r\n
    \r\n \t
  1. The speaker\u2019s topic:<\/strong> Give the audience a general idea of what the speaker will discuss.<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. The speaker\u2019s credibility:<\/strong> Explain why the speaker is qualified. This could include their experience, achievements, or expertise.<\/li>\r\n \t
  3. Why the audience should care:<\/strong> Help the audience understand what they will gain from the speech or why it matters to them.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nYou can change the order of these points if it flows better, but all three should be included.\r\n\r\nFinally, the conclusion<\/strong> should smoothly introduce the speaker and signal that it is their turn to speak. This is often called the \u201chandoff.\u201d A common way to end is by inviting the audience to welcome the speaker:\r\n
    Please join me in welcoming Dr. Wyatt Ford.<\/blockquote>\r\nAt this point, it is appropriate to begin clapping or greet the speaker as they come forward. A strong speech of introduction sets the tone for the presentation and helps the audience feel excited and ready to listen.\r\n

    Speeches of Presentation<\/h3>\r\nThe second type of special occasion speech is the [pb_glossary id=\"718\"]speech of presentation[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>. A speech of presentation is a brief speech given to accompany a prize or honor.\r\n\r\nIn a speech of presentation, the introduction should clearly tell the audience what award or honor is being given. This does not need to be long\u2014just a brief explanation to set the context and let the audience know what is being recognized.\r\n\r\nIn the body<\/strong> of the speech, explain what the award is and why it matters. Then, highlight the achievements of the recipient<\/strong>. What did they do to earn this recognition? Be specific and give a clear picture of their accomplishments, whether it was winning a competition, producing important work, or making a meaningful contribution.\r\n\r\nIf the award involved multiple participants, it can also be appropriate to briefly acknowledge others who were considered. This shows respect for their effort and contributions while still keeping the main focus on the person receiving the award.\r\n\r\nOverall, a strong speech of presentation celebrates the recipient, explains the importance of the award, and helps the audience appreciate why the honor is being given.\r\n

    Speeches of Acceptance<\/h3>\r\nThe complement to a speech of presentation is the speech of acceptance. A [pb_glossary id=\"708\"]speech of acceptance[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> is a speech given by the recipient of a prize or honor.\r\n\r\nIn a speech of acceptance, the introduction should begin by clearly acknowledging the award or honor you are receiving. This sets the context and lets the audience know what you are being recognized for.\r\n\r\nThe body<\/strong> of the speech typically includes three main parts:\r\n
      \r\n \t
    1. Put the award into perspective.<\/strong>Explain why the award is meaningful to you. You might share what it represents, how it connects to your goals, or why it matters in your personal or professional journey.<\/li>\r\n \t
    2. Thank those who helped you.<\/strong>No one achieves success alone. Take time to recognize the people who supported you, such as family, friends, mentors, or colleagues. You can make this more meaningful by briefly sharing how they contributed to your success.<\/li>\r\n \t
    3. Reflect on your effort.<\/strong>Briefly describe the work or dedication that led to this achievement. This helps the audience appreciate what went into earning the award.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nIf you think you might receive an award, it is a good idea to prepare a short acceptance speech ahead of time. A helpful rule to remember is: be thankful, be gracious, and be brief<\/strong>.\r\n

      Speeches of Dedication<\/h3>\r\nA fourth special occasion speech is the [pb_glossary id=\"712\"]speech of dedication[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nA speech of dedication is given to mark a special event, such as the opening of a new building, the naming of a space, or the unveiling of a plaque. The purpose of this type of speech is to highlight the importance of the project and recognize the people or meaning behind it.\r\n\r\nWhen preparing a speech of dedication, begin by explaining your connection<\/strong> to the event. For example, if the dedication is for a person you knew, you can briefly share your relationship and their accomplishments.\r\n\r\nNext, explain what is being dedicated<\/strong>. Give the audience a clear understanding of the building, space, or project and why it matters. Then, recognize the people who helped make it possible<\/strong>. If it is a new structure, you might mention those who designed or built it. If it is an existing space being dedicated, you can acknowledge those who organized or supported the dedication.\r\n\r\nFinally, explain why this dedication is important to the community<\/strong>. Help the audience understand the impact of the project. For example, a new store might bring jobs and services, while a new hospital wing could improve healthcare and provide advanced treatment options.\r\n\r\nOverall, a strong speech of dedication connects the audience to the meaning of the event, honors those involved, and highlights the value of what is being dedicated.\r\n

      Toasts<\/h3>\r\nAt one time or another, almost everyone is going to be asked to deliver a [pb_glossary id=\"724\"]toast[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nA toast is a short speech meant to congratulate, appreciate, or remember<\/strong> someone. You might give a toast at events like weddings, retirement parties, or celebrations. Toasts can recognize someone\u2019s achievements, show gratitude, or honor a person\u2019s life and accomplishments.\r\n\r\nWhen preparing a toast, the most important thing to remember is to keep it brief<\/strong>. Toasts are usually given during ongoing events, so you do not want to take too much time away from the celebration.\r\n\r\nAnother key point is that a toast should focus on the person or people being honored, not on you<\/strong>. Make eye contact with them, speak directly about them, and keep your message centered on their achievements or qualities.\r\n\r\nIn the body<\/strong> of your toast, you can share a short story, a meaningful memory, or a few kind and appropriate words about the person. Make sure your content fits the occasion and is something everyone in the audience can understand and appreciate. Avoid inside jokes that only a few people would understand.\r\n\r\nTo conclude<\/strong>, invite the audience to join you in celebrating the person. For example, you might say:\r\n
      Please join me in congratulating Gina on her achievement.<\/blockquote>\r\nThen, raise your glass. This signals others to do the same and completes the toast.\r\n

      Roasts<\/h3>\r\nA [pb_glossary id=\"704\"]roast[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> is a unique type of speech that is meant to both honor and celebrate<\/strong> someone in a fun and lighthearted way. These speeches are often given at events that recognize a person\u2019s achievements, such as a banquet or special celebration. While roasts often include humor, the goal is not to embarrass or hurt the person, but to share stories and moments that highlight their personality in a playful and respectful way.\r\n\r\nWhen preparing a roast, start by thinking about the person you are honoring. Do they have any funny habits, memorable stories, or well-known quirks that could be shared in a positive and good-natured way? As you come up with ideas, make sure to avoid anything that is too private, sensitive, or potentially hurtful. The goal is to make people laugh while still showing respect and appreciation.\r\n\r\nNext, choose stories or examples that your audience will understand and enjoy<\/strong>. Roasts work best when the humor feels inclusive. If you rely on inside jokes that only a few people understand, the rest of the audience may feel left out. Instead, focus on stories or traits that many people in the room can relate to.\r\n\r\nFinally, always end your roast on a positive and sincere note<\/strong>. While humor plays an important role, it is important to remind the audience and the person being honored that you genuinely respect and appreciate them. A strong ending leaves everyone feeling good and reinforces the purpose of the speech: to celebrate the individual in a meaningful and enjoyable way.\r\n

      Eulogies<\/h3>\r\nA [pb_glossary id=\"694\"]eulogy[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> is a speech given to honor and remember someone who has passed away. While it can feel difficult to prepare, it is also a meaningful opportunity to celebrate that person\u2019s life and share their impact with others.\r\n\r\nWhen writing a eulogy, remember that you were likely asked to speak because you had a special connection with the person. Your role is to make the speech personal and heartfelt<\/strong>, helping the audience reflect on and appreciate who they were.\r\n\r\nAlthough a eulogy is given at a serious and emotional time, it can be helpful to include a moment of gentle humor or lightness<\/strong>, when appropriate. Sharing a warm or funny memory, such as a loved one\u2019s favorite hobby or a memorable habit, can bring comfort to the audience and remind them of the person\u2019s personality. The key is to make sure the tone fits both the individual being honored and the audience.\r\n\r\nA helpful way to organize a eulogy is around three main parts:\r\n