Royal Family Christmas Traditions: A Peek Inside the Windsors’ Festive Celebrations

As one of the most renowned families globally, the royal family's Christmas celebrations may not be as extravagant as one would expect.

Despite transitioning into King Charles III's reign, certain traditions are steadfastly upheld each December 25th.

Rather than splurging on lavish gifts, the royals, including the younger members, opt for light-hearted presents that don't break the bank.

Perhaps their possession of the crown jewels plays a role in this choice.

Regrettably, a peculiar Christmas tradition dictates that couples spend the initial part of their day apart.

Prince William and Catherine, for instance, have separate breakfasts on Christmas morning.

Typically, royal women dine in their chambers, while men convene in the dining room for a meal two hours before proceeding to Mass at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, Norfolk, England.

The rationale behind this tradition remains unclear, as does the consistency of William and Catherine's adherence to it annually.

On the eve of Christmas, the royal family congregates in Sandringham Estate's Red Drawing Room at 6 p.m. after afternoon tea.

Gift-giving takes place on Christmas Eve, a practice in alignment with their German heritage.

The scene unfolds within a spacious room adorned with a long table draped in white cloth and name cards.

The night commences with each member locating their designated spot and standing before a pile of presents.

Subsequently, a frenzy ensues as everyone simultaneously unwraps their gifts, engaging in lively chatter and ribbon-tugging.

Upon entering the room, each individual discovers their assortment of presents meticulously arranged before them.

Despite the abundance of gifts, the emphasis is on whimsical and economical offerings.

Allegedly, the more inexpensive and playful the gift, the better.

An additional rule, enforced while Prince Philip was alive, stipulated that no presents were to be opened until his signal, as he oversaw the festive revelry.

Throughout the years, the royal family has exchanged memorable Christmas gifts, ranging from humorous to endearing.

Noteworthy examples include a quirky bath hat gifted to the Queen by Harry, a fish-shaped pen bestowed upon Harry by Princess Margaret, and a humorous “Grow Your Own Girlfriend” kit presented to Harry by Princess Catherine.

Princess Anne once gifted King Charles a white leather toilet seat, a gesture he appreciated so much that he now carries it on his international tours.

The tradition of Christmas trees in royal households traces back to Queen Victoria's popularization of the practice in the 19th century.

Previously, the royal family donated trees to churches, schools in the Sandringham vicinity, and prominent London landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral and St. Giles Cathedral.

Additionally, royal family members extend Christmas greetings through cards to relatives, friends, and select officials.

Under Queen Elizabeth II's reign, approximately 750 Christmas cards were dispatched annually.

In a nod to the holiday season, King Charles' 2023 Christmas card conveys warm wishes for a joyous Christmas and New Year.

Meanwhile, the Waleses opted for a monochromatic theme for their family Christmas card photo, featuring Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis clad in white button-down shirts and jeans.

This snapshot encapsulates the essence of simplicity and togetherness, embodying the spirit of the festive season within the royal family.