Princess of Wales Reportedly Prefers a More Casual Family Christmas at Anmer Hall Over Formal Sandringham Customs
Princess Kate is reportedly growing weary of some longstanding Royal Family Christmas traditions, particularly the custom of exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve. Sources suggest that the Princess of Wales finds this practice "odd" and is keen to introduce a more relaxed, family-focused celebration with her own parents, the Middletons.
Plans are underway for Kate and Prince William to host a Christmas gathering at Anmer Hall, their residence on the Sandringham estate. The couple aims to create a "rival" Christmas celebration with Kate’s parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, joining in the festivities. Insiders hint that sharing glimpses of their cosy holiday on social media—featuring moments like relaxing, eating chocolate, or watching TV—could help showcase a “normal” Christmas at Anmer Hall, contrasting with the more formal traditions observed at Sandringham.
“William is enthusiastic about embracing Kate’s much more normal conception of Christmas,” a source revealed, adding that while the Anmer Hall gatherings have previously been more subtle, this year’s will be notably more distinct.
According to a communications executive, the couple's preference for a laid-back celebration aligns with their successful "normal" brand. “William and Kate have made an incredibly successful brand out of being normal and relatable, but the strange royal customs at Christmas threaten that image. It’s not surprising they want to change the narrative as they prepare for their future roles.”
The Christmas Eve gift exchange is one particular tradition that Kate finds outdated. “Kate has always found the presents on Christmas Eve thing weird,” a friend shared, suggesting that this custom may be reconsidered when Kate and William eventually take on their roles as King and Queen.
While the Royal Family may still observe some traditional customs at Sandringham this year, Christmas at Anmer Hall is set to be more relaxed, with "proper presents" for the family exchanged on Christmas Day. “You can bet they’ll be doing things their way, with a focus on making Christmas Day special for the kids,” the source added.
