LONDON: As the holiday season approaches, Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton are reportedly considering a shift away from certain long-standing royal Christmas traditions, favoring a celebration that better aligns with their family’s values and lifestyle.
The royal couple, known for their relatable public image, is expected to host a more casual gathering at their Anmer Hall residence, with hints of Middleton family traditions in the mix.
According to reports, Kate, who recently completed chemotherapy treatment, finds some royal customs — particularly those at Sandringham — “a bit weird.” In contrast to the traditional formalities observed at Sandringham, the Christmas at Anmer Hall promises a laid-back atmosphere, featuring personal touches like family gift-giving on Christmas Day rather than the customary Christmas Eve.
According to reports, citing a source close to the royals, the private celebration could even include glimpses of everyday holiday moments, such as “eating chocolate and watching TV,” with potential light updates on social media.
“William and Kate have built a very successful brand on being ‘normal’ and relatable, but some of the traditional royal customs at Christmas don’t fit that narrative,” a communications executive noted to The Daily Beast.
An insider said that the tradition of gift-giving on Christmas Eve is among the customs Kate finds particularly unusual. “Kate has always found the presents on Christmas Eve thing weird,” a close friend shared, adding that the tradition will likely change once William and Kate assume greater responsibilities within the royal family.
This holiday season at Anmer Hall is expected to embody a “middle-class flavor,” with the couple focusing on “proper presents” for their children and each other on Christmas Day, reflecting a more familiar and relaxed approach to the holiday season.
