The Prince and Princess of Wales will not attend the royal family’s traditional Christmas Day lunch this year, choosing instead to spend the holiday with the Princess’s family. The decision marks a continuation of a pattern for the couple, who also hosted their own gathering last year.
While the couple will join other senior royals for the Christmas morning church service at Sandringham, they will depart before the midday meal. Reports suggest the move reflects a desire for a more private family atmosphere, particularly following a challenging year that included the Princess’s cancer treatment and recovery.
The annual lunch is expected to proceed with other members of the royal family in attendance. Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales remains engaged in public duties, having recently hosted her annual “Together at Christmas” carol service at Westminster Abbey, an event focused on themes of community and compassion.
A former palace chef has detailed the traditional festive menu typically served, which includes roast turkey, all the customary trimmings, and a flaming Christmas pudding. Despite the Waleses’ absence from the main table, the royal holiday traditions will carry on for the rest of the family.
