Is there a special object or piece of crockery that only comes out for celebrations in your home?

A natural way to answer

We have a particular tablecloth that belonged to my grandmother, and it only comes out for the big celebrations. It's nothing remarkable to look at, but laying it down has become a small ritual that signals the day is special and worth making a fuss of.

Key phrases to use

• sees the light of day — to be used, seen or brought out (often after being stored away)“That dress only sees the light of day at weddings.”
• tucked away — stored or hidden in a safe, out-of-the-way place“The decorations are tucked away in the loft.”
• making a fuss of — to give someone or something a lot of special, loving attention“We always make a fuss of her on her birthday.”
• step up a gear — to become more intense, lively or impressive“Once the band arrived, the party stepped up a gear.”
• kept for best — saved only for special occasions rather than everyday use“Those towels are kept for best.”