The Princess of Wales is preparing for her highly anticipated annual Together at Christmas carol concert, an event that has become a cornerstone of the royal festive calendar. Scheduled to return to Westminster Abbey this December, the concert promises to once again celebrate community heroes and the spirit of the season.
A Festive Fixture with a Personal Touch
Kate Middleton first launched the Together at Christmas concert in 2021, creating an evening that masterfully blends traditional carols, musical performances, and heartfelt readings. Royal expert Katie Nicholl notes, "Nobody really knew if it would have legs, but it’s become such an established occasion. It’s one of the dates she most looks forward to, and I think she’s immensely proud of what it has become."
The event's success was confirmed in The Royal Foundation accounts published in August 2025, which stated the concert aims "to bring together communities across the UK to celebrate people who have gone out of their way to help others." The 2024 service was particularly poignant, held just months after Kate confirmed she had completed her cancer treatment. Over 1,600 guests attended, with priority given to volunteers, carers, and families affected by the Southport knife attacks.
Memorable Moments and Royal Attendance
Each year, the princess adds a unique and personal element to the proceedings. In a moving letter to 2024 attendees, she wrote, "Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year… It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart." Her message, reflecting on her own challenges, resonated deeply: "Because in times of joy and sadness, we are all each other’s light."
The royal turnout is always impressive. For the 2024 concert, Kate was joined by Prince William and their three children, George, Charlotte, and Louis. The young princes and princess participated by placing handwritten notes of thanks on a Kindness Tree. The wider royal family and the Middleton clan, including Carole, Michael, Pippa, and James, also show their steadfast support.
Standout Performances and a High Bar
The musical line-up has consistently featured top talent. The 2024 broadcast on ITV1 included performances from Paloma Faith, Gregory Porter, and Olivia Dean. Readings were delivered by figures such as actress Michelle Dockery and Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty.
However, the event's most unforgettable moment remains from its inaugural year in 2021, when Kate herself surprised everyone by accompanying singer Tom Walker on the piano for his song For Those Who Can’t Be Here. Walker praised her, saying, "She was absolutely fabulous. She absolutely smashed it." Katie Nicholl reflects that this moment "made headlines around the world" and set a very high standard for future surprises.
As for what 2025 holds, Nicholl suggests that while Kate always manages to keep a surprise or two up her sleeve, the challenge will be topping her own legendary piano performance. The nation waits with anticipation to see how the Princess of Wales will once again capture the heart of Christmas at Westminster Abbey.
