As the holiday season approaches, the Prince and Princess of Wales are gearing up for their cherished festive traditions.
Catherine is set to host her annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, a highlight in the royal calendar.
This event not only showcases the couple’s commitment to community and charity but also marks the beginning of their Christmas celebrations.
Typically, the Wales family celebrates Christmas alongside the rest of the royal clan at Sandringham in Norfolk.
It’s a time filled with joy, where they greet local residents on their way to church.
Over the years, the Wales children have joined in on this annual ritual, adding a youthful charm to the proceedings.
However, this year’s specific plans remain under wraps, leaving royal watchers eagerly anticipating what’s next.
Historically, the couple has only missed spending Christmas with the royals on two occasions.
The first instance was in 2012 when Catherine faced severe morning sickness during her early pregnancy with Prince George.
This condition, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, led to her hospitalization just weeks before Christmas.
Consequently, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge opted to celebrate with Catherine’s parents, Carol and Michael Middleton, in Bucklebury, Berkshire, prioritizing her health.
In a similar vein, the couple broke from tradition again in 2016, choosing to spend the holiday with the Middletons once more.
This time, however, they brought along their children, George and Charlotte, to the church service.
The sight of the young royals, especially with their grandparents and aunt and uncle, delighted fans.
George was dressed adorably in a grey coat, while Charlotte mirrored her mother’s style in a navy jacket and burgundy tights, both clutching candy canes as they left the church.
Last year marked a significant moment as Prince Louis joined the family for his first Christmas outing to church.
At just five years old, he held his father’s hand tightly as they walked together.
Afterward, he joined Catherine to greet well-wishers, showcasing the family’s warm connection with the public.
Observant royal enthusiasts noted Louis’s trousers, which many suspected were previously worn by his older brother, George, stirring nostalgia among fans.
Amidst the festive cheer, speculation arises about whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will bring their children, Archie and Lilibet, to Sandringham.
Given the Sussexes’ limited time in the UK—Lilibet reportedly visiting only once and Archie having lived in America since infancy—many readers voiced their opinions in a recent poll.
An overwhelming 84% of respondents felt it would be best for the couple to leave their children at home this year.
While some lamented the idea that Archie and Lilibet don’t know their British family well, others argued it would be unfair to disrupt the royal family’s Christmas.
Trust issues linger between the Sussexes and the royal family, and many believe inviting them could lead to potential media leaks or further tensions.
After a challenging year for Charles and Catherine regarding their health, a peaceful holiday with trusted family members seems paramount.
Reflecting on the royal family dynamics, a photograph released in early 2020 captured young George proudly standing with his father, William, King Charles, and the late Queen.
This image not only served as a family keepsake but also symbolized the monarchy’s future.
However, it inadvertently fueled Harry and Meghan’s feelings of being sidelined within the institution, leading them to question their roles.
Just days after that poignant photo surfaced, the Sussexes shocked the world by announcing their decision to step back from senior royal duties.
This move marked a significant turning point, highlighting the growing rift within the family.
The subsequent years have seen little communication between the Sussexes and the royals, despite moments like the touching birthday video for King Charles last year, featuring Archie and Lilibet singing.
As the festive season nears, all eyes will be on the royal family.
Their traditions, the presence of the young royals, and the ongoing tensions with the Sussexes will undoubtedly shape this year’s celebrations.
With a mix of excitement and uncertainty, the British public waits to see how the holidays unfold for the Prince and Princess of Wales and their family.
