Celebrations to commemorate the Coronation of HM King George V will be held in the capital, July 30-August 3 this year.

A tentative program launches the celebrations on July 30 with a Taumafakava or a Royal Kava Ceremony at Pangai Lahi followed by fireworks.

On July 31 a Royal Luncheon will be held followed by a Government Reception, and then a Dinner hosted by HRH Crown Prince Tupouto'a Lavaka.

On Friday, August 1 is the king's Coronation Ceremony in the morning, will be held at the FWC Centenary Church, Saione. A Coronation Ball will follow later that night for invited guests only, while a Charity Concert, a Block Party and fireworks is planned for downtown Nuku'alofa.

A Combined Church Service is also being planned for August 3 for all churches at Pangai Lahi as well as other celebrations planned for August 2 but that will be confirmed later. Other events like sports are also being organised to join the celebration.

Invited royals

King George Tupou V, who returned last month from a two months extended trip abroad, has met with various Royal Families in Europe and Asia and personally invited them to his Coronation.

Official invitations have been extended to the Imperial Highnesses of Japan, the English Royal Family, and the royals of Norway, the Netherlands, Monaco, Thailand and Bhutan, but they have not confirmed their attendance.

Other friends of the Tongan monarch, including the Maori King of New Zealand, are invited as well as representatives of other nations.