More than 25,000 artists and performers from all 204 participating Olympic nations are to feature as part of the London 2012 Festival between 21 June and 9 September this year.

The full programme for the event has now been finalised, with 12,000 events scheduled at locations throughout the UK - including 130 world premieres and 85 UK premieres.

Among those confirmed as taking part in the London 2012 Festival are artist Damien Hirst; musician Damon Albarn; comedian Stephen Fry; and animated duo Wallace and Gromit.

The London 2012 Festival is due to launch on midsummer's night, 21 June, with an open-air concert at Stirling Castle, along with events at Lake Windemere and in Birmingham.

Festival director Ruth Mackenzie said: "The London 2012 Festival will be the largest cultural celebration in our lifetime."

"There will be arts events taking place in unusual places all over the UK that will showcase the best in international culture when the eyes of the world are on us this summer."

Details: www.london2012.com

Image: Damien Hirst is participating in the London 2012 Festival - LOCOG