Royal diary: What's coming up this week (and next!)
The King is set to be the host with the most...
Hi, Royal Clubbers! As I'm sure you can appreciate, the royal diary is looking a little quieter in the lead-up to Christmas, so I’ve stretched the parameters of a week and thrown in the big day itself, which arrives a week tomorrow.
One event likely to take place this week is King Charles’ Christmas lunch for extended family members. The late Queen Elizabeth II traditionally held the gathering at Buckingham Palace, but last year Charles chose Windsor Castle. We are not as yet certain on what day this lunch might take place but the following events are firmly etched in the royal diary…
Tuesday 19 December
The Duchess of Edinburgh will visit her patronage, The Lighthouse, in Woking.
This incredible charity hosts a range of projects aiming to support, encourage and empower marginalised and vulnerable members of society through offering training and providing care packages and food.
Sophie volunteered at The Lighthouse's food bank during the pandemic, and in February 2022 she opened its Jigsaw hub which offers clothing, equipment and toys for local families, as well as parenting workshops.
Monday 25 December
The royals will turn out for the annual walk to church on Christmas Day morning, with Queen Camilla's children and grandchildren expected to join them for the first time.
The likes of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children traditionally step out on the day and take the time to speak with locals who have gathered outside the church for a glimpse of the royal family.
After church, the royals head back to Sandringham House for a traditional turkey dinner, before sitting down to watch the King's speech at 3pm, which is recorded ahead of the day.
As you'll have read from my chat with Lady Anne Glenconner, the royals exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, in a nod to their German ancestry.Â
This week on the Royal Club
The royal diary my be barer than customary but ours is looking reassuringly full. On Monday we’re providing the secrets of planning a royal Christmas party – from someone very much in the know"! And as the week progresses our paid subscribers will discover the art of dressing royal children, watch a one-of-its-kind royal Christmas quiz and get the very latest class-leading weekly newsletter rom Emily Nash. No one does ‘behind the scenes’ like our Emily, and last week she discussed William and Kate’s royal traditions.
A little note from your diarist
In recognition of the royals richly deserved period of rest and rejuvenation, the royal diary will return in the new year in three weeks’ time.