As the festive season approaches, reports suggest that Prince William and Princess Catherine are determined to make Christmas especially memorable for their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The royal couple is going all out, an insider revealed, emphasizing their plans to create joyful family memories.
While the Royal Family's traditional Christmas Day walk to church may seem like an age-old custom, it could soon become a thing of the past. King Charles has frequently spoken about his vision to modernize the monarchy, and his son, Prince William, is reportedly keen on implementing even more significant changes. This includes adopting a more relaxed approach, as highlighted by discussions about using a smaller "R" in "Royal."
For decades, the Royal Family has attended Christmas service at St. Mary Magdalene Church privately. However, Queen Elizabeth II turned the walk into a public event during her reign, and since the early 1980s, it has become a fixture in the royal calendar.
According to a source close to the Wales family, William and Catherine are considering adopting a Christmas routine more familiar to many families with children—alternating between the two sets of grandparents. Reportedly, they plan to start spending every other Christmas break with the Middleton family.
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla often retreats to Wiltshire after Christmas to host her own family celebrations, marking another departure from the traditional Royal Family Christmas. Similarly, King Charles is expected to spend Boxing Day at his Scottish estate, Birkhall, instead of continuing the late Queen’s tradition of staying at Sandringham throughout the Christmas and New Year period.
This time of year can be challenging for large families, and the Royals are no exception. Reports suggest that the Wales family has occasionally struggled with sleeping arrangements at Sandringham. They were allegedly left to sleep on outdated, creaky beds described as "fish finger-style," which are not conducive to a silent night. Sandringham can accommodate about 16 to 18 people comfortably, but with Prince William mentioning plans to spend Christmas with 45 family members, space is tight. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have reportedly been relegated to staff quarters in previous years to make room for everyone.
A long-running tradition in the Royal Family is the exchange of humorous gifts, which often brings laughter to Sandringham. Writing in his memoir *Spare*, Prince Harry recounted how the family gathered on Christmas Eve to exchange presents, following a German tradition that has survived the family's anglicization. Royal expert Duncan Larcombe once noted that the late Duke of Edinburgh was the biggest joker during these gatherings, though now it seems King Charles has taken on that role. Charles, known for his strong sense of humor, has said that laughter helps lighten the atmosphere in otherwise formal settings.
During a recent engagement with the 1st Battalion of the Mercian Regiment, King Charles admitted to a fan that he doesn't wear Christmas sweaters. This year, the Wales family joined the King at Sandringham for traditional celebrations but also ensured time for private moments as a nuclear family to reflect on the year’s challenges.
The year has been particularly marked by significant health concerns within the Royal Family. Both Princess Catherine and King Charles have faced health battles. Catherine, who is now in remission, took her time returning to public duties, with Prince William supporting her every step of the way. Their resilience and commitment to public service amidst personal trials have been evident.
Catherine’s gradual return to engagements, including hosting her annual Christmas carol service, reflects her dedication to royal responsibilities while prioritizing her health and family.
