
This year, the British Royal Family’s pre-Christmas lunch, traditionally held about a week before Christmas, saw some changes. Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children—Princes George and Louis, and Princess Charlotte—did not attend the gathering, as they are now based in Norfolk and preparing for an intimate Christmas celebration at their home, Anmer Hall, on the Sandringham estate. They are reportedly awaiting the arrival of the rest of the royal family for Christmas Day.
King Charles, 76, hosted the pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace this year, after holding it at Windsor Castle for the past two years. The private luncheon typically gathers around 70 senior royals and their extended families. However, Prince Andrew decided to skip the event, following advice from his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, amid ongoing speculations about his ties to a Chinese businessman, Yang Tengbo, who is considered a security risk by the U.K. government. Andrew, who was once linked to Yang, has since stated that he no longer has contact with the individual. He also won’t be at Sandringham for Christmas, instead spending the holiday with Ferguson at the Royal Lodge.
This year’s Christmas at Sandringham is expected to be particularly special, with an extended family gathering. William mentioned it would be “noisy,” with 45 people gathered in one room. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond explained that, given the difficult year both Kate and Charles had—especially with their respective cancer diagnoses—the presence of so many family members would likely bring them much-needed joy. Bond noted that as the family grows, Christmas celebrations are becoming more focused on the younger generation, which is fitting for the holiday spirit.
While the Prince and Princess of Wales may be spending a more intimate Christmas with the Middletons, Bond believes that the entire family will come together in support of Charles and Camilla, creating a strong sense of unity and togetherness after a challenging year.