Christmas is widely regarded as the most wonderful time of the year—a season for kindness, gratitude, love, and reflection on all we hold dear.

As is tradition, the British Royal Family spent this festive holiday at Sandringham, with the Prince and Princess of Wales ensuring their three children partake in the family’s cherished customs. “It’s important to them that their kids share childhood traditions like their school pals,” an insider told Us Weekly in 2018, adding, “They’re going all-out to make it extra special.”

A Festive Royal Celebration

The royal family celebrates Christmas with an array of time-honored traditions. On Christmas Eve, they gather for a formal dinner featuring Norfolk shrimp and lamb, while Christmas morning begins with a hearty English breakfast of eggs, sausages, bacon, and beans. After their customary visit to St Mary Magdalene Church, they enjoy a Christmas lunch with roast turkey as the centerpiece.

Interestingly, one quirky tradition dating back to Henry VII still continues: family members “weigh in before and after Christmas lunch,” as per Us Weekly. Later in the afternoon, they gather to watch the annual Christmas speech, now delivered by King Charles following the late Queen Elizabeth’s reign.

In his most recent address, King Charles reflected on themes of faith, compassion, and unity, expressing gratitude to the countless volunteers who serve their communities. “Over this past year, my heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another,” he said. Charles also touched upon global conflicts and prayed for peace in the year ahead. “The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant: ‘Do to others as you would have them do to you.’”

Royal Rules and Traditions

Tradition is at the heart of the British monarchy, with many customs dating back centuries. These include strict dress codes that often fascinate the public. Royals are frequently seen in gloves, military uniforms, tiaras, or elaborate jewelry. The late Queen Elizabeth’s iconic rainbow-colored coats and hats, for instance, were rooted in a tradition that discouraged women from showing their hair. Even today, colored nail polish and jeans are largely off-limits for royals.