This year, Prince William and Princess Kate are expected to spend the festive season at the royal estate in Norfolk alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla. Joining them will be their children—Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and seven-year-old Prince Louis.
Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie are also set to attend with their two children, Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex. Princess Anne will be present as well, along with Zara and Mike Tindall. Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have reportedly received invitations, although their parents, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, are not expected to take part.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will once again remain in California, celebrating Christmas with their children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four.
So what does Christmas actually look like behind palace doors—and will the royals stick to their long-standing traditions this year?
Christmas at Sandringham
The festive period officially begins on Christmas Eve, when the family arrives at Sandringham for their main evening meal. The dinner is a formal black-tie affair, and gifts are traditionally exchanged after the meal rather than on Christmas morning—a nod to the royal family’s German roots, where presents are often opened on Christmas Eve.
In his memoir Spare, Prince Harry described the scene as organised chaos. He recalled a long table dressed in white linens and place cards, with each family member standing in front of a personal pile of gifts. At a given moment, everyone begins opening presents at once—an energetic mix of chatter, laughter, and torn wrapping paper.
Christmas Day traditions
On Christmas morning, the King and senior members of the family attend a private church service away from public view before heading to the traditional Christmas Day service at St Mary Magdalene Church. Over the years, this walk to church has become one of the most recognisable royal Christmas rituals.
Prince William and Princess Kate are expected to attend the public service with their three children, alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla.
After church, the family returns to Sandringham House for a classic Christmas lunch. Games such as charades are believed to be part of the afternoon entertainment.