Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were seen smiling as they arrived at Buckingham Palace for the Royal Family's annual Christmas lunch on Thursday, 19 December, despite their father, Prince Andrew, withdrawing from the event. Andrew reportedly made the decision not to attend after consulting with his ex-wife, Sarah, Duchess of York.
Beatrice arrived in a car driven by her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, while Eugenie was spotted with her husband, Jack Brooksbank. The princesses appeared in good spirits, contrasting with the ongoing family crisis surrounding their father.
Other attendees included Queen Camilla, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Duke of Kent and his family, and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. Notably absent were the Prince and Princess of Wales, who are already in Norfolk preparing for Christmas at Sandringham.
Prince Andrew will also miss the Sandringham festivities, with reports indicating he will spend Christmas Day at Royal Lodge with Sarah, Duchess of York. The princesses are expected to celebrate with their in-laws for the first time.
The lunch, hosted by King Charles, returned to Buckingham Palace this year after being held at Windsor Castle for the past two years. It provides an opportunity for family members to gather before the main Christmas celebrations.
