British Royal Christmas 1: 2008-2021

[Curryong]

Yes Sophie, so do I. Go somewhere nice, warm and relaxing, away from negativity and nay sayers.

 

[Dman]

I hope they go to a nice log cabin in Colorado. Decorate the tree. Sit by the fireplace and sip on a nice mug of thick hot chocolate topped with homemade sweetened whipped cream and chocolate chip cookie placed on the top.

 

[Osipi]

One thing I have always wondered over the years is how many times has the Queen, herself, wished that she could do away with all the celebrations and entertaining at Sandringham and enjoy Christmas with just herself and Philip around the fireplace at Wood Farm sipping hot cider and wearing comfortable slippers all day and having dinner on trays in front of the television for the Queen's Christmas message.

So many times traditions in a family seem to be so set in stone that it would be unthinkable to celebrate any other way. It loses its magic and its allure after years and years of doing things exactly the same way and, as we've seen, if someone chooses not to attend the "family get together", its a reason for pearl clutching and rumors of wars start.

Over the years, with our children grown and have children and grandchildren of their own and separated by many, many miles along with the fact that we do not celebrate Christmas here, I've come to appreciate discarding what sometimes ended up feeling like a "chore" and "required gifting" to enjoying a quiet day at home with a turkey (for dinner that is... not my hubby), a glass or two of wine and enjoying the winter season at our leisure.

This year I'm going to be especially grateful while preparing the turkey with all the trimmings because I do have my husband here to share it with. I could have lost him over the past year to bladder cancer and thankfully he'll be here with me, cracking jokes about the turkey like he does every time I make a turkey but he'll be doing it cancer free. This kind of thing means so much more to me than following any "tradition" or living up to any kind of "expectations" and I guess I apply that kind of thinking to everyone's holiday. Even the Windsors. I just wish people would let them be to enjoy and celebrate the way they choose to without applying any kind of drama to it and enjoy their freedom to celebrate in any way they choose to.

 

[Fijiro]

I hope that Baby Archie's first Christmas is going to be special - more Archie themed.
Baby's First Christmas!

 

[Pranter]

I've wondered if when Charles is King he will keep the Sandringham Christmas thing going...or if he will do it elsewhere with a small group of family.



LaRae

 

[muriel]

I've wondered if when Charles is King he will keep the Sandringham Christmas thing going...or if he will do it elsewhere with a small group of family.



LaRae

He seems to love Scotland, but my guess is that he will keep the Sandringham Christmas going, but perhaps decamp to Balmoral sometime in the new year.

 

[Jacknch]

Please note that a number of posts have been deleted because they fall well outside the purpose of this thread.

Please be reminded that if members wish to make a point on the topic being discusses, they should do so once and move on. Repetitively pushing the same point over and again within the same discussion constitutes repetitive posting and may result in posts being deleted without notice.

 

[Bosana]

The Sussex's plans for Christmas this year were probably decided upon months ago with the knowledge and approval of the Queen It is only now that the media has found out about it that it has become fodder for their typical and not very subtle spin on how the two treat the royal family.

 

[Fijiro]

I’m guessing we’ll be getting some holiday pics from the Cambridge and Sussex family.

I hope so

 

[soapstar]

It's because they know that the media will try to claim they are breaking protocol and ignore the fact that William (a future king) has forgone Christmases at Sandringham to spend time with his in-laws.

It was smart of the Sussexes to point it out because it stops any debate about protocol, etc.

I will add that the debate surrounding where members of the BRF spend Christmas isn't new though. When William and Kate decided not to spend Christmas at Sandringham, the media accused them of breaking protocol and snubbing the Queen (there was also some fierce debate about it on this forum). So if the media had accused the Sussexes of this, they would just be recycling their own headlines.

I’ve never had a problem with the Cambridges spending Christmas with the Middletons and I don’t see the problem with the Sussexes spending time with Meghan's family. Meghan spent the last 2 Christmases with the BRF, so she should be able to spend this year with her mother. I’m sure they are both excited to have this time together.

 

[TLLK]

It was smart of the Sussexes to point it out because it stops any debate about protocol, etc.

I will add that the debate surrounding where members of the BRF spend Christmas isn't new though. When William and Kate decided not to spend Christmas at Sandringham, the media accused them of breaking protocol and snubbing the Queen (there was also some fierce debate about it on this forum). So if the media had accused the Sussexes of this, they would just be recycling their own headlines.

I’ve never had a problem with the Cambridges spending Christmas with the Middletons and I don’t see the problem with the Sussexes spending time with Meghan's family. Meghan spent the last 2 Christmases with the BRF, so I’m sure she is excited about being able to have this time with her mother.

Like you soapstar I have never had an issue with the Cambridges, Phillips, Tindalls etc..spending Christmas away from Sandringham. I'm just so pleased that this generation of the BRF have the flexibility to do so which was something their parents' generation didn't have. ?

 

[soapstar]

So true. I always found it sad that those who married into the BRF, couldn’t have Christmas with their families. I’m glad that the rules have been relaxed.

I wonder if the Cambridges will be with the Middletons this year? When do we usually find out who will be at Sandringham?

 

[Osipi]

I think the Cambridges actually have a very workable solution to be with both sides of the family for the holidays. With having their own home at Amner Hall on the Sandringham estate, the Middleton family can come spend the holidays there and the Cambridges still can participate in the festivities at the Big House and attend church services Christmas morning with the BRF. We've seen where the Middletons attended Christmas morning services but were not grouped with the royal family on the traditional walk to church.

With Harry and Meghan, its not as easy as Doria lives thousands of miles away in Los Angeles and the Sussexes do not have a residence near Sandringham. It does make me feel good though to see that both sides of families are being seen as equally important when it comes to important days and holidays in the family's life.

No matter who they spend Christmas with, its going to be a memorable one for little Archie as he experiences the "magic" of Christmas for the very first time. ?

 

[ACO]

I agree. I keep seeing comments like "Doria should just come to the UK" and I wonder why this thought? She shouldn't have to uproot herself in order to spend time with her family. I am glad they are apparently going to her. Archie is her only grandchild. She is just as important as any of the Windsors and I am glad they are treating her as such.

 

[Claricecolin]

I agree. I keep seeing comments like "Doria should just come to the UK" and I wonder why this thought? She shouldn't have to uproot herself in order to spend time with her family. I am glad they are apparently going to her. Archie is her only grandchild. She is just as important as any of the Windsors and I am glad they are treating her as such.

I see one very practical reason. Much easier for Doria to come to them. Archie may still be an easy baby but once babies begin to move they usually don't want to be held long. They could also just decide to meet somewhere. In any case I hope they all have a wonderful time and enjoy Archie.

 

[American Observer7]

Meghan probably just wants to be at home in the US for the holidays with her family and her American customs which Harry must get accustomed to that as well.

 

[Panther2000]

I hope they go to a nice log cabin in Colorado. Decorate the tree. Sit by the fireplace and sip on a nice mug of thick hot chocolate topped with homemade sweetened whipped cream and chocolate chip cookie placed on the top.

That sounds good to me. Just Add GlamMa Doria to the mix.

 

[sndral]

I've wondered if when Charles is King he will keep the Sandringham Christmas thing going...or if he will do it elsewhere with a small group of family.



LaRae

Or perhaps a larger group to include Camilla’s children & their families. I’m more curious about how Beatrice & Eugenie will handle Christmas going forward, they’ve always gone to Sandringham, but with in laws to factor in things might change even while the Queen is still with us. I believe the Queen has hosted her niece/nephew for Christmas through the years, I wonder if Charles will host his as well.
Regarding Christmas in Southern California, I’m a native Californian (albeit more northern) but have spent the holidays visiting Southern California and it doesn’t feel very ‘christmasy’ to me in SoCal - it’s so warm usually. If I were Doria I’d love to spend time at FC enjoying the traditions of a British holiday.

 

[tommy100]

Personally I wouldn't be surprised if Charles moves Christmas to Windsor in time.

Will be interesting to see what Eugenie does this year, she and Jack attended Sandringham last year.

 

[ACO]

I see one very practical reason. Much easier for Doria to come to them. Archie may still be an easy baby but once babies begin to move they usually don't want to be held long. They could also just decide to meet somewhere. In any case I hope they all have a wonderful time and enjoy Archie.

Is it easier? I think it is unfair to expect her mother to come to them when they have the means and time to go to her. Maybe she didn't want to travel to London. I wouldn't blame her to want to be home, if that is where they are. Who knows but nice they will all be together. Doria shouldn't have to be forced to be around the royals to see her child and grandchild.

As for the future? I also wonder if this will continue on. Who knows what Charles will want.

I expect everyone will be around for this. Probably will see the debut of the Cambridge kids as well. That would be a treat.

 

[HereditaryPrincess]

Personally I wouldn't be surprised if Charles moves Christmas to Windsor in time.

Will be interesting to see what Eugenie does this year, she and Jack attended Sandringham last year.

I have a feeling you could be right. Christmas always used to be at Windsor and it was only when the castle was being revamped in the late '80s that the BRF moved to Sandringham. Charles and his siblings spent many Christmasses at Windsor as children so the castle probably has fond memories for them (it would also be a bigger capacity for the amount of people staying the night, I'd think).

 

[tommy100]

without going too off topic it seems to me that it would be easier for everyone as they could all go off to their own houses after and there is probably more room for everyone. Just my opinion. Who knows and hopefully we don't find out anytime soon. Anyway we are getting off topic.

I dread to think how much christmas ends up costing HM, everyone at Sandringham, the wider family at BP lunch, presents etc.

 

[Countessmeout]

I have a feeling you could be right. Christmas always used to be at Windsor and it was only when the castle was being revamped in the late '80s that the BRF moved to Sandringham. Charles and his siblings spent many Christmasses at Windsor as children so the castle probably has fond memories for them (it would also be a bigger capacity for the amount of people staying the night, I'd think).

At Windsor or Balmoral makes far more sense. If they continue to have the huge family Christmas after the queen passes, with Charles' siblings and their kids.

The party out grew Sandringham long ago. They are often crowded in the home we have heard stories. The home is certainly not that large. And besides Wood Farm, there is only Amner Hall for space.

Windsor has guest bedrooms for spades. As well as the practical fact that Harry/Meghan, the Wessexes and Yorks all live at Windsor and wouldn't need to have housing provided for the holidays either.

Windsor though isn't that private. If they want a more homely feel, and to get away for Christmas, Balmoral would be perfect. The main home is massive. Then there are also Birkhall, Craigowan and the cottage that William has up there to house people.

Is it easier? I think it is unfair to expect her mother to come to them when they have the means and time to go to her. Maybe she didn't want to travel to London. I wouldn't blame her to want to be home, if that is where they are. Who knows but nice they will all be together. Doria shouldn't have to be forced to be around the royals to see her child and grandchild.

As for the future? I also wonder if this will continue on. Who knows what Charles will want.

I expect everyone will be around for this. Probably will see the debut of the Cambridge kids as well. That would be a treat.

Yes it is easier. One single woman traveling is always easier then putting a baby on a long flight. Royal or commoner, flying with babies is never simple.

Then there is logistics of housing them. And all the security that goes with them as well. Harry and Meghan are not simple in laws.

No one is forcing Doria to come to England. Nor to 'be around royals to be with her grandson'. The only royals who would be at FC would be her son in law and grandson (well her daughter by marriage).

 

[camelot23ca]

I have a feeling you could be right. Christmas always used to be at Windsor and it was only when the castle was being revamped in the late '80s that the BRF moved to Sandringham. Charles and his siblings spent many Christmasses at Windsor as children so the castle probably has fond memories for them (it would also be a bigger capacity for the amount of people staying the night, I'd think).

I think Charles may do a big pre-Christmas lunch or dinner for the extended family, similar to what’s done now, but I don’t see him continuing the tradition of the extended family, or even his own immediate family, having a huge gathering in Scotland, at Windsor or wherever over Christmas itself. I can actually see Charles wanting to spend Christmas in his own home with Camilla, with various family members being welcome to come for visits, (not necessarily overnight stays), as they wish.

Regarding Harry and Meghan’s plans, I’m sure the Queen enjoys having family around at Christmas, but I don’t think the get together has ever been a command performance even for her own children, let alone grandchildren and more extended family. I seriously doubt she gives two hoots about where her adult grandson and his family spend Christmas! Also, QEII herself grew up with very strong ties to her maternal, non royal family so she likely sees the value in her grandchildren and great grandchildren doing the same.

I’m not sure there needed to be a formal statement put out regarding The Sussex’s Christmas plans. The press, not to mention the internet, won’t stop talking about their absence in December just because of a statement. But now they’re all talking in November, as well. To me it seems that by putting out a statement, instead of just quietly doing what they wanted, they’ve handed the media more material to work with.

 

[carlota]

to me, it is irrelevant where H&M chose to spend xmas and there was no need for them to communicate on it from my perspective. we already knew they would take some months off from the (self created) media drama they got themselves into, so i am sure no one expected them with the royals during xmas anyway.

i am excited to see who shows up this year. W&K have not been to spend xmas with kate's family in a while, i wonder if they will do so next year again, as they only did it once or twice.

 

[HereditaryPrincess]

I think Charles may do a big pre-Christmas lunch or dinner for the extended family, similar to what’s done now, but I don’t see him continuing the tradition of the extended family, or even his own immediate family, having a huge gathering in Scotland, at Windsor or wherever over Christmas itself. I can actually see Charles wanting to spend Christmas in his own home with Camilla, with various family members being welcome to come for visits, (not necessarily overnight stays), as they wish.

I don't know; Charles is friendly with the Chattos which suggests he socialises with the extended royals beyond group engagements/events like Trooping, so he may want to continue the big family Christmas. Of course, his friendship with one extended family member doesn't account for the whole of the extended family. It'll be interesting to see how Charles will do things indeed.

 

[JR76]

I dread to think how much christmas ends up costing HM, everyone at Sandringham, the wider family at BP lunch, presents etc.

The Royal family gives each other cheap and funny presents so that part doesn't set them back that much.

 

[Countessmeout]

to me, it is irrelevant where H&M chose to spend xmas and there was no need for them to communicate on it from my perspective. we already knew they would take some months off from the (self created) media drama they got themselves into, so i am sure no one expected them with the royals during xmas anyway.

i am excited to see who shows up this year. W&K have not been to spend xmas with kate's family in a while, i wonder if they will do so next year again, as they only did it once or twice.

They have done it twice. The last was the Christmas before Pippa got married.

But the difference is, they spend Christmas with the Middletons either way. They have the benefit of having Amner hall and being able to host the Middletons up at Sandringham. So even Christmases that they are with the queen for Christmas eve, they spend part of it with Kate's family as well.

Since James is engaged, I wonder if we will have a replay of Pippa engagement Christmas.

 

[Fem]

I’m not sure there needed to be a formal statement put out regarding The Sussex’s Christmas plans. The press, not to mention the internet, won’t stop talking about their absence in December just because of a statement. But now they’re all talking in November, as well. To me it seems that by putting out a statement, instead of just quietly doing what they wanted, they’ve handed the media more material to work with.

It seems like a thing with them - sometimes in hope of getting ahead of the story what happens is that they're creating a story, unfortunately.

Also, Christmas, finally! I think it's my favourite time of the year, BRF always comes swinging. The lunch at BP, Christmas cards, Sandringham, Christmas broadcast, and all celebrated in such a joyous and lighthearted way.

I'd love to see the Cambridges at Sandringham this year, but if they decide to spend them with the Middletons it's all okay in my book.

 

[tausi]

I am also hopeful that we will see the Cambridge family in Sandringham.

It seems Prince William is mindful his grandparents are not getting any younger. So I hope they will continue to balance their Christmas time by being there (with Middleton at Anmer with them).

Pippa also seem very close to her in-laws. Even James with Pippa's husband family. So I imagine there is a lot of discussions on who is going to be spending Xmas where. They all seem so close which is a great thing but it's such a dilemma during holiday season.