King Charles III has selected the historic Westminster Abbey as the location for his annual Christmas Day broadcast to the nation and the Commonwealth this year. The monarch's pre-recorded message, a staple of the British festive calendar, will be aired at 3 p.m. (1500 GMT) on Thursday, 25 December 2025.
A Historic Setting for a Personal Message
The choice of Westminster Abbey is deeply symbolic. This central London landmark, famed for hosting coronations and royal weddings for over a millennium, is intrinsically linked to the theme of pilgrimage. The Abbey is the focal point for an annual pilgrimage to the tomb of Edward the Confessor, the monk-like monarch who was made a saint in 1161. This setting is expected to strongly influence the themes of the King's address.
The Christmas speech is one of the rare moments when the sovereign, now 77, speaks without government guidance, offering his own reflections. The address traditionally combines a strong religious framework with commentary on contemporary issues and often includes personal anecdotes from the monarch's life.
A Message Amidst Recovery
This year's broadcast carries added significance, coming just a fortnight after King Charles made a deeply personal television appearance regarding his health. He revealed that "good news" from his doctors means he can reduce his cancer treatment in the new year. Diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in early 2024, the King's care has now entered a "precautionary phase," according to Buckingham Palace, with his condition being closely monitored to ensure continued recovery.
In his 2024 speech, recorded at the intimate Fitzrovia Chapel, Charles paid tribute to care workers nationwide and thanked the medical staff who supported him after his diagnosis. The 2025 address will be his fourth Christmas message since ascending to the throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022.
A Tradition Watched by Millions
The monarch's festive message is a cornerstone of Christmas Day for millions across the United Kingdom and the 56-nation Commonwealth. Broadcast as many families gather for their traditional lunch, it represents a moment of shared reflection. By choosing the awe-inspiring space of Westminster Abbey, King Charles III is set to deliver a message that connects ancient tradition with the personal and national spirit of the present day.
