Royal Family Christmas Traditions: A Season of Change and Reflection
Each year, the royal family gathers to celebrate the festive season, with the Monarch's annual Christmas message serving as the centerpiece of royal traditions. Alongside this, the family participates in a walkabout on their way to church on Christmas Day, engaging with members of the public. However, much of the House of Windsor's Christmas traditions take place behind closed doors.
This year, King Charles seems to be leaning towards a less traditional celebration at Sandringham Castle, especially following plans revealed by Prince William and Princess Catherine. While some royal traditions date back centuries, Princess Catherine is reportedly hoping to update at least one, finding it "a little weird." Such changes would break a nearly 200-year-old tradition.
Currently, the British royal family’s Christmas plans remain uncertain, largely dependent on King Charles's health. Recent reports indicate that the monarch’s condition has been under scrutiny. At a recent event at the Royal Albert Hall, Charles appeared without Queen Camilla, who was recovering from a chest infection. Princess Anne was seen offering heartfelt support to her brother, keeping a watchful eye on him during the ceremony, a gesture described as almost maternal.
The concern for King Charles’s health comes in the wake of his surprising cancer diagnosis. This news was unexpected, particularly given that his parents lived well into their 90s. Despite this, plans for the new year appear to be moving forward, with palace officials suggesting a return to normalcy for 2025, including more royal tours, subject to approval by Charles’s doctors.
Meanwhile, Prince William and Princess Catherine are embracing a more relaxed and family-oriented approach to Christmas at their Norfolk residence, Anmer Hall. A friend close to the couple shared that Catherine has always found the royal tradition of exchanging presents on Christmas Eve “a little odd” and plans to phase it out when she and William eventually take charge.
Instead, the couple favors a more typical family celebration, surrounded by Catherine's parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, as well as her siblings James and Pippa, their partners, and their children. The family plans to exchange presents on Christmas Day, creating a more modern and middle-class atmosphere.
In recent years, William has fully supported his wife’s desire for a “normal” Christmas, reflecting her upbringing and values. Friends suggest this shift in tone might even be shared publicly, with the couple potentially posting family photos to showcase their approach.
While William and Catherine are redefining their festive traditions, King Charles is expected to host a quieter Christmas. However, one tradition remains steadfast: the royal family's annual walk to church on Christmas morning. Royals, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, and extended family members such as Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall, make their way to St. Mary Magdalene Church, where they are greeted by well-wishers.
This public walk is a cherished tradition, offering a glimpse of the royal family together. Despite the changes this year, the sight of the Wales family joining the King and Queen is anticipated.
Notably absent from the festivities will be Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. With their relationship with the royal family still strained, they are unlikely to attend the Sandringham celebrations. Instead, reports suggest they may spend Christmas at Althorp, the childhood home of Princess Diana.
As the royal family navigates these changes, the festive season reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, with each branch of the family shaping its celebrations to reflect their unique values and circumstances.
