Royal Noel: King Charles and Queen Camilla Plan 'One of the Biggest' Royal Christmas Gatherings in Decades

The British royal family, after a "brutal year," in the words of Prince William, is reportedly orchestrating a grand Christmas celebration at Sandringham, marking one of their most significant gatherings in recent history.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to host approximately 40 family members, emphasizing the importance of togetherness after a year marked by personal challenges, according to Vanity Fair's veteran royal expert Katie Nicholl.

Contrary to earlier speculations of a subdued holiday at nearby Anmer Hall, the heir to the throne and Catherine, Princess of Wales, along with their children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis — will join the festivities at Sandringham on Christmas Eve per tradition.

A royal insider revealed, "Actually the plan is for them to all be at Sandringham for a very special big family Christmas. William and Catherine and the children will be there. The King and Queen want their nearest and dearest with them to celebrate."

Adding a modern touch to the traditional royal Christmas, the Queen's son, Tom Parker Bowles, has been invited for the first time. He expressed his anticipation, noting it would be a "different" experience from his usual celebrations.

The royal family plans to uphold cherished traditions, including the customary walkabout after the Christmas Day church service — a gesture symbolizing unity and accessibility. This public appearance is always particularly poignant, showcasing the family's solidarity during the festive season.

This year's gathering holds special significance as both Charles III and the Princess of Wales have faced health challenges, with undisclosed cancer diagnoses earlier in the year. Despite these hurdles, there is a renewed sense of optimism. An insider shared, "It has been a very difficult and challenging time but the feeling is they are over the shock and the worst of it, and everyone is feeling very optimistic about 2025."

King Charles, unlike his cancer-free daughter-in-law, continues to undergo treatment but remains actively engaged in royal duties. A source noted, "The king is having ongoing treatment, which he is tolerating very well. When I last saw him he was looking amazing and very excited about the family being together for the festive season."

In the lead-up to Christmas, the royals have been busy with various engagements. The King and Queen released their Christmas card, featuring a relaxed photograph taken in the gardens of Buckingham Palace.

The Princess of Wales hosted her annual "Together at Christmas" concert, while Her Majesty, recovering from pneumonia, invited children to decorate a Christmas tree at Clarence House, supporting her charitable endeavors.

Notably absent from the celebration will be Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who are expected to remain in California for the sixth consecutive year, celebrating with Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland.