This Christmas, Sandringham Estate is set to be anything but silent, as Prince William shares his plans for a lively holiday celebration with a hefty guest list of 45 people. Speaking to soldiers and their families during a recent visit in England, the Prince of Wales couldn’t hide his excitement, saying, “We’ll be in Norfolk, at Sandringham. It won’t be quiet, it will be noisy.”
The festive gathering will take place at the historic Sandringham Estate, the royal family’s private country home in Norfolk, which has hosted royal Christmases since 1988.
While the full guest list remains under wraps, it’s confirmed that Princess Catherine and their three children—Prince George (11), Princess Charlotte (9), and Prince Louis (6) — will be in attendance, ensuring the holiday will be filled with youthful energy.
However, there’s one notable absence this year: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their children will not be joining the royal festivities at Sandringham. This marks the continuation of a family divide, as the Sussexes have not participated in the royal Christmas celebrations since 2018, the year of their wedding.
A holiday full of tradition
Royal Christmas celebrations are never just about numbers; they’re about time-honored traditions that bring the family together. One of the most beloved customs is the exchange of Christmas Eve gifts, which, according to True Royalty TV co-founder Nick Bullen, are typically humorous and lighthearted. “The presents they give to each other are normally quite silly. If you’ve got all the greatest jewelry in the world, all the greatest works of art in the world, all the greatest clothes in the world, what do you give each other on Christmas? It tends to be small joke presents,” he explained.
Christmas Day itself is filled with carefully planned activities, starting with gift-opening for the children before attending a service at the 16th-century St. Mary Magdalene church, located on the estate. Former royal chef Darren McGrady gives us a taste of what’s to come in the kitchen, revealing that the royal Christmas feast is a multi-course affair. Expect traditional Christmas lunch featuring turkey, various stuffings, roast potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, followed by an afternoon tea with chocolate Yule log and mince pies, and concluding with an even grander dinner buffet, highlighted by a beautifully decorated York ham.
Prince William faces busy Christmas ahead
Despite the exciting festivities, Prince William admitted to feeling far from prepared for the upcoming Christmas chaos. “I’m in no way ready for Christmas,” he confessed during his visit with the 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment. Between taking walks with the family dogs at Sandringham and the packed schedule of royal duties, it’s clear the Prince has a full plate this holiday season.