Kensington Palace has released exciting new details about the Princess of Wales's highly anticipated annual Christmas carol concert, set to illuminate Westminster Abbey in just days.
A Celebration of Love and Community
Now in its fifth year, the Together at Christmas service will be held on Friday, December 5. The event will welcome 1,600 guests for a heartfelt celebration honouring love in its many forms, from familial bonds and friendships to community spirit and kindness between strangers.
Princess Kate will preside over the service, and she will be joined by her husband, Prince William, who is scheduled to deliver a reading. Royal watchers will also be hoping to catch a glimpse of their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, alongside other members of the royal family.
Star-Studded Performances and New Features
The musical lineup for the evening has been significantly expanded with the announcement of several new performers. They include acclaimed singer-songwriter Katie Melua, the beloved Cornish folk group Fisherman’s Friends, and the rising pop star Griff.
They will join a roster that already features actress Hannah Waddingham and Dan Smith from the pop rock band Bastille. In a new creative touch for this year's event, an illustrator will be present inside the Abbey, sketching live snapshots to capture the atmosphere and special moments as they happen.
Honouring Everyday Heroes and National Broadcast
The service is designed to celebrate individuals from across the UK who have dedicated their time to others. This includes volunteers, community initiative leaders, and those who have offered a helping hand to people around them.
Readings on the themes of love, compassion, and connection will be delivered by Hollywood stars Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor, comic Babatunde Aleshe, and rising actor Joe Locke. They will be accompanied by pianist Paul Gladstone Reid.
Guests will be greeted by a festive display created by horticulturist Jamie Butterworth, highlighting the importance of nature. The Royal Horticultural Society is donating wreaths made by their ambassadors, including Dame Mary Berry, and schoolchildren. Attendees can also add their names to a 'connection tree' symbolising togetherness.
A brass ensemble of eight teenagers from the late Duchess of Kent’s charity, Future Talent, will perform as guests arrive. Furthermore, 15 community carol services with the same theme will be held across the UK in locations including Armagh, Greater Manchester, and Gwent.
The Westminster Abbey service will be recorded and broadcast to the nation on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve, with a repeat scheduled for Christmas Day.
