A Christmas Fit for Royals

Overcome with 'gratitude and relief,' Princess Kate and Prince William are embracing the spirit of Christmas more than ever this year

- JAIME HARKIN

"Christmas holds a very special place in Kate's heart," says royal expert Sharon Carpenter.

The holidays have historically been a happy time for the royal family, full of long-standing traditions like opening gifts on Christmas Eve at Sandringham Estate and partaking in the annual Christmas morning walk to St. Mary Magdalene church. For Princess Kate and Prince William, it’s the time of year when they retreat to their cozy country home and hunker down with their three children for peaceful walks in the woods, board games and beloved Christmas movies.

This season stands to be even more special for the Prince and Princess of Wales after an extremely tough 2024, which saw both Kate, 42, and William’s 76-year-old father, King Charles III, battle cancer (Charles continues to receive treatment; Kate announced she’s cancer-free in a September video message). “This past year has been one of the most challenging yet for [them],” says royal expert Sharon Carpenter. (William described it as “brutal” in a November interview.) “You can only imagine the relief and gratitude they must be feeling.” Kate couldn’t be happier to spend the next few weeks surrounded by loved ones who helped her through her darkest hours. “Kate is genuinely looking forward to joining the royal family at Sandringham for Christmas,” adds Carpenter. “The holidays will no doubt be a chance for the entire family to give thanks.”

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams says Charles is expected "to be active over the festive season."

Kate’s gratitude was on full display in a heartfelt letter she shared with guests attending her fourth annual