With Christmas Day fast approaching, the Royal Family is gearing up for one of its most iconic and beloved public traditions: the festive walk to church at Sandringham. This year, all eyes will once again be on the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, as she continues her gradual return to public life following her cancer treatment.
The Star of the Sandringham Show
Hundreds of devoted royal fans are expected to gather on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk on Christmas morning, hoping to catch a glimpse of the royals as they stroll from Sandringham House to St Mary Magdalene's Church. Last year, the crowds made it abundantly clear who they were most eager to see: Kate, who was laden with gifts and well-wishes from the public.
Despite having undertaken many more engagements throughout 2025, the Princess is predicted to remain the star attraction. Her appearance will come just hours after ITV broadcasts her pre-recorded Together At Christmas carol service from Westminster Abbey, an event she hosted earlier in December.
Royal expert Jennie Bond highlighted Kate's growing association with the festive season, telling the Mirror: "Catherine has made the Christmas period uniquely hers. It is the time of year when she steps forward and takes pride of place amongst the working royals."
A Special Christmas in a New Home
This year's celebrations hold extra significance for the Wales family. After what has been described as a 'brutal' 2024, they are enjoying the festive season from their brand new residence, Forest Lodge, having moved from Adelaide Cottage in October.
For Kate and her three children—Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6—the Christmas countdown in their new home is particularly special. Jennie Bond believes Kate, inspired by her own mother Carole's festive efforts, will be dedicated to creating magical memories.
"Having been brought up in such a happy, cohesive family, Catherine loves making Christmas just as special for her children," Bond said. She suggested that in an eco-conscious age, Kate likely involves the children in making sustainable decorations from foraged materials.
The Modern Parenting Dilemmas
As the shopping days dwindle, it's understood that Prince William and Kate have already collected Christmas lists from George, Charlotte, and Louis. While the royal children could technically be given anything they desire, the couple is known for their efforts to avoid spoiling them.
One firm boundary remains technology. "One thing they most definitely won't be getting, however much they beg, is a smartphone," Bond explained. She acknowledged this stance will become increasingly challenging as Prince George enters his teenage years, noting that many parents and schools are now opting for basic 'brick' phones as a compromise.
Bond concluded by reflecting on the family's fresh start, stating: "Moving to Forest Lodge and putting down permanent roots must be so exciting, so I'm sure that the holiday time they spend there is going to be pretty magical." This Christmas, for the Princess of Wales, the magic will be found in balancing public duty with private family joy in their new forever home.
