Royal Family Rings in Christmas with Tradition and Joy

Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton enjoyed a cheerful day out with their children as they participated in a royal Christmas tradition.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, both aged 43, along with Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, attended the yearly Christmas Day service at St. Mary Magdalene Church on Thursday, December 25. The family of five and their fellow royals — including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Prince Edward, Duchess Sophie and others — walked from nearby Sandringham House to the church in a public appearance that has become a customary holiday event.

Kate wore a deep brown coat complemented by a matching hat and scarf, while William’s outfit featured touches of red and blue. Their sons were dressed in suits for the public outing, and Charlotte also wore a brown coat.

William and Kate have been experiencing a busy holiday season with their children. Earlier this month, they were present at Kate’s “Together at Christmas” carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 5. The couple — who have been married since April 2011 — subsequently shared their holiday card via Instagram on December 18.

“Sending everyone very Happy Christmas wishes,” they wrote alongside a family photograph taken by photographer Josh Shinner in April.

The accompanying image showed William and Kate posing with George, Charlotte and Louis in a field of flowers, with Kate’s arm around George, Charlotte resting her head on William’s shoulder, and Louis seated in William’s lap.

As the family prepared for the holidays, a source highlighted the importance of Kate’s first Christmas since announcing her cancer remission in January.

“The celebration might have a slightly reflective feel,” the insider exclusively told Us Weekly earlier this month, “but it will also be a time for rejoicing, particularly after Kate received positive health news.”

According to the source, the royals “are all eager to maximize their time together.”

William and Kate are also anticipating “building cherished memories in what they consider their permanent residence” after relocating from Adelaide Cottage to Forest Lodge in October.

Meanwhile, George, Charlotte and Louis are just as enthusiastic about the holidays as their parents.

“They adore Christmas,” the insider said of the trio, whom William and Kate strive to keep grounded. “They aim to create a traditional Christmas without formality, unlike what [King] Charles may have experienced in his childhood.”

Beyond their church service outing, the royals observe several Christmas traditions each year. On Christmas Eve, they gather at Sandringham House — with Kate’s parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, joining in the celebrations — for afternoon tea, a formal dinner and gift-giving, according to royal historian Marlene Koenig.

“The royals favor humorous or inexpensive presents,” Koenig told Us.

Following church on Christmas Day, the family will return to Sandringham for drinks, a traditional lunch and a buffet dinner.