Street parties, light shows and concert around the coronation of King Charles

Buckingham Palace has announced the program for the coronation of British King Charles on Saturday 6 May. In addition to the usual ceremony, there are traditional processions, a concert at Windsor Castle, street parties and light shows that weekend.

In a statement, the palace said: “The King and Queen Consort hope that the coronation weekend will provide people with an opportunity to spend time and celebrate with friends, family and communities across the UK, Commonwealth and other territories under the kingdom fall”.

The formal part of Charles and Camilla’s coronation will be at Westminster Abbey in London. That part of the ceremony will be mainly traditional and religious in nature. The royal couple will come with a procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.

After the service, the couple goes back to the palace where they appear on the balcony along with other members of the royal family.

The concert at Windsor Castle will take place on Sunday 7 May. Who will perform is not yet known, but according to Buckingham Palace it is a combination of “international music icons and contemporary artists”. Also playing is a “world-class” orchestra accompanied by “some of the greatest entertainers and dancers”.

Several thousand British people can attend the musical event by drawing lots. British people are also called upon to take to the streets on Sundays to celebrate and share food. A day later, Monday 8 May, is a day off. Buckingham Palace hopes Britons use that time to volunteer.

It is not stated who of the family is present at the coronation. For example, it is not clear whether King Charles’ youngest son Harry has been invited. Harry and his wife Meghan Markle have criticized the royal family in recent interviews, a documentary on Netflix and a book.

Charles, 74, became King of the United Kingdom in September after his mother, Queen Elizabethwas deceased.