As Christmas approaches, royal families across Europe prepare to celebrate the holiday season in their own unique ways. From King Charles’s festive gatherings at Buckingham Palace to the lavish traditions in Monaco, these regal clans blend public duties with cherished family moments, offering a peek into their exclusive celebrations.
In London, the Windsor family kicks off the festivities with a pre-Christmas lunch hosted by King Charles. This cherished tradition, inherited from Queen Elizabeth, brings together the wider royal family, setting the stage for a holiday season steeped in history and familial bonds.
The Princess of Wales, meanwhile, takes center stage with her annual carol service at Westminster Abbey. This candlelit concert draws around 1,600 guests, blending music and community spirit in a heartwarming lead-up to Christmas Day.
Traveling to Norfolk, we find Sandringham, the historical home of the Windsors. Christmas Day begins with a hearty breakfast followed by a traditional walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church. After the service, the family gathers for lunch, culminating in King Charles’s Christmas broadcast at 3:00 p.m., a moment watched by many across the nation.
Meanwhile, the Dutch royals maintain a more understated approach. They prefer to keep their Christmas celebrations private, sharing a card among family members while enjoying a cozy holiday together. The emphasis on intimacy reflects their desire to escape the public eye during this special time.
In Sweden, Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel have made a tradition of creating annual family videos, showcasing their holiday spirit and close-knit family dynamics. This focus on family underscores the warmth and love that permeates their celebrations, making it a cherished time of year.
Belgium’s royal family also keeps their festivities away from the public spotlight, opting for a low-key celebration that emphasizes quality time together. This discretion allows them to enjoy the season without the pressures of public expectations.
Over in Denmark, the royal household embraces a more relaxed vibe, sharing festive family videos and advent posts that highlight their holiday spirit. This approach not only engages their audience but also fosters a sense of connection with the public during the festive season.
Norway adds a unique twist to the holiday tradition by sending a Christmas tree to Trafalgar Square in London each year. Typically, the Norwegian royal family spends Christmas at their royal lodge outside Oslo, creating a serene and picturesque backdrop for their celebrations.
In Spain, the holiday festivities take a different turn, focusing on the Three Kings rather than Santa Claus. King Felipe’s Christmas speech airs on Christmas Eve, and family time extends into early January, creating a prolonged celebration filled with joy and togetherness.
Finally, Monaco dazzles with its extravagant Christmas celebrations. The palace continues the beloved tradition of gift-giving for children, initiated by Princess Grace and upheld by Prince Albert and Princess Charlene. This lavish style captures the essence of holiday cheer, making it a standout celebration among European royals.
As we look forward to the holiday season, these royal families remind us that Christmas is about more than just public appearances; it’s about family, tradition, and the unique ways they choose to celebrate this special time of year.
