Michael Jackson’s burial will be held on Thursday 3rd September 2009 at 7.00pm PST.

The ceremony will be at Holly Terrace in The Great Mausoleum at Glendale Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, five miles from Hollywood in North Los Angeles, California.

This will be a 45 minute private ceremony which will be limited to family and close friends away from cameras.

According to Michael’s brother Marlon, soul legend Aretha Franklin will sing at the graveside. Jackson's close friend Diana Ross will be there too, so will Motown record label founder Berry Gordy.

After an emotional sunset funeral, Jackson's coffin will be immediately encased in deep concrete to deter grave robbers and ghouls.

CCTV cameras linked to sensors will activate an alarm to warn security guards of any would-be trespassers at the grave.

The cemetery is closed to the public and is surrounded by high walls. Anyone visiting has to show ID.

A small wake will be held afterwards at the Jackson family compound in Encino. "This is the final step, the final curtain will be closed as regards to Michael's life," said Marlon.