Prince Archie, now seven years old, has still never spent Christmas at the Sandringham Estate with the Royal Family, a tradition normally observed by grandchildren of the monarch. Despite being born in the UK, Archie's first Christmas was spent on a private family holiday in Canada, chosen by his parents, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Six Festive Seasons in America
The family relocated to the US the following year after stepping back from royal duties, meaning Archie has spent the last six festive seasons in America. Although the Sussex family moved back to Britain in August, reports indicate that Christmas will once again be spent in the US.
Archie's five-year-old sister, Princess Lilibet, has also never experienced a royal Christmas. While there were rumours the family could spend Christmas at Sandringham this year, given their return to the UK, this is considered unlikely.
Plans for Christmas in California
Prince Harry and Meghan reportedly want to see Meghan's mother, Doria, for Christmas. According to The Times, the family will spend the holiday in California. A friend told The Times: “For Thanksgiving and Christmas, they will do whatever Doria wants to do.
“They would love her to come over to the UK and spend it with them here, but they will be wherever she wants to be. They won't be having Christmas with the Royal Family.
“How could that even work? They know it would be too awkward and too difficult. They also know they're not going to be invited, and they're not waiting for an invitation.”
Settling into UK Life
Despite being back in the UK for several months, the Sussex family has not been seen meeting with any of Harry's royal relatives, including King Charles, whom they last saw in July. The family is believed to be settling into their new UK life, with Archie and Lilibet adjusting to their new British school.
The family has not been seen out together. Prince Harry has attended various public engagements solo, and was spotted once with Meghan walking hand-in-hand to a Cotswolds pub. Meghan has shared clips of the family fishing and enjoying countryside walks on Instagram. The location of their rented British home has not been disclosed for security reasons.
