The festive season may not have officially begun, but King Charles III has already set the tone by hosting his traditional pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace. This cherished annual gathering, carried over from Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, brings together members of the royal family to celebrate the holiday spirit. However, this year’s gathering saw some notable absences.
Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with their three children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis — were missing from the event. According to People Magazine, the Prince and Princess of Wales had already made their way to Norfolk to prepare for the royal family’s private Christmas celebrations at Sandringham Estate. The Waleses reportedly look forward to spending quality time with loved ones at Sandringham, a longstanding Christmas tradition for the royal family.
Despite their absence, King Charles welcomed other members of the royal family to the celebratory lunch. Among the prominent attendees were Prince Edward and his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who were seen arriving at Buckingham Palace on Thursday. The presence of Edward and Sophie underscored the family’s continued commitment to maintaining royal traditions even as the monarchy adapts to modern challenges.
One notable omission from this year’s gathering was Prince Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. Their absence comes amid renewed scrutiny over Prince Andrew’s alleged ties to a Chinese businessman accused of espionage. Reports suggest that the Duke of York opted to stay away following discussions with Sarah Ferguson. Royal biographer Ingrid Seward shared with People Magazine that the Duchess likely advised Andrew to avoid the event, knowing how such matters unfold in public and media circles. “Despite her own missteps in the past, she understands the social optics,” Seward explained.
Supporting this decision, Andrew and Sarah’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, reportedly echoed the advice, encouraging their father to remain out of the spotlight. The sisters, who have previously spent Christmas with their parents at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate, are believed to have alternative plans this year, choosing to spend the holidays with their in-laws instead.
While the pre-Christmas lunch traditionally signals the beginning of the royal family’s festive calendar, this year’s event highlights a period of transition for the monarchy. With King Charles III at the helm, the family navigates personal dynamics, public scrutiny, and evolving traditions, all while preserving the spirit of togetherness that defines the holiday season.
