He described the Christmas Eve routine in detail. When the lights are dimmed, the white drawing room is opened and tables are laid out with gifts for each person. Presents are unwrapped that evening at Sandringham, but the Prince and Princess of Wales save a second exchange for Christmas morning at Anmer Hall, so that George, Charlotte, and Louis can enjoy opening gifts in the familiar comfort of their own home.
A balance between duty and home
For William and Kate, the holiday appears to be a combination of two worlds. There is the official element, shaped by tradition and the expectations of royal life. Then there is the private element, full of the laughter, routines, and quiet moments that belong solely to their family of five. In that sense, their Christmas is not so different from anyone else’s. A day anchored in ceremony, then reclaimed for themselves once the duties are done.
