Festivals are all about celebration and the Spirit of Friendship Festival is no exception. A nationwide programme of parties, music and entertainment is planned and everyone is invited.

The Spirit of Friendship Festival coincides with Her Majesty The Queen's Golden Jubilee and local communities will turn out in force to celebrate with street parties and carnivals.

To make sure the party goes with a swing, the nation will enjoy an extended holiday as Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th of June form part of the Golden Jubilee Weekend. Get your bunting at the ready.

See our Events Diary for Spirit of Friendship Festival happenings that are open to the public.

From 1st-4th of June, BBC Music Live 2002 brings you four days of UK-wide musical celebrations, culminating in two unique concerts held in the gardens of Buckingham Palace, with free tickets available to everyone via a national ballot to be launched in the spring.

For further information about BBC Music Live 2002: Telephone 020 7765 2853 or E-mail: musiclive@bbc.co.uk

The Spirit of Friendship Festival will run from 11 March - 10 August 2002. Find out how you can be a part of it by emailing festival@manchester2002.co.uk.