Prince William has offered a rare glimpse into the royal family’s plans for Christmas, sharing that the festivities will be hosted at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
Speaking during a visit with soldiers and their families in Bulford, Wiltshire, on 10 December, the Prince of Wales, 42, disclosed the size of the gathering. “We’ll be in Norfolk, at Sandringham. We’ll be 45 for Christmas. It won’t be quiet; it will be noisy,” he said, according to People.com.
As tradition dictates, the royal family gathers at Sandringham for Christmas, a practice dating back to 1988.
William, his wife Kate Middleton, 42, and their three children, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, will join King Charles III and Queen Camilla for the celebrations.
According to Pagesix.com, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not been invited this year.
The couple, who now reside in the United States, last celebrated Christmas with the royal family in 2018.
William’s unpreparedness and traditions
During his conversation with soldiers from the 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment, William admitted he was not yet ready for the holidays. “Am I ready for Christmas? No, no way am I ready,” he remarked.
Sgt. Sam Murray, who spoke with William, noted that the prince asked about his children’s Christmas wishes, adding, “He said he is not organised himself.” Leah St Clair-Lewis, involved with WRVS Services Welfare, shared that William also mentioned enjoying walks with his dogs at Sandringham.
The royal family maintains a lighthearted tradition of exchanging gag gifts on Christmas Eve, a custom cherished over the years. Nick Bullen, co-founder of True Royalty TV, previously told Fox News Digital, “The presents they give to each other are normally quite silly.”
Sandringham’s Christmas routine
On Christmas morning, children open their presents before attending a service at St. Mary Magdalene Church, a 16th-century chapel on the estate. Former royal chef Darren McGrady, as reported by Hello!, described their Christmas Day menu as a feast featuring turkey with various stuffings, roasted potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and Christmas pudding.
Afternoon tea typically includes a chocolate Yule log, mince pies, and scones, while an elaborate dinner buffet often features decorated York ham.
This Christmas is expected to be particularly poignant for the royal family. Both Princess Kate and King Charles have faced health challenges this year. Kate recently completed chemotherapy for cancer, while Charles continues his treatment following a similar diagnosis.
Despite the absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the gathering at Sandringham will uphold its festive traditions, with King Charles and Queen Camilla hosting Christmas Eve.
According to People.com, the event will conclude with the family watching the King’s Christmas address, continuing the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, who began televising Christmas messages in 1957.
