Christmas festivities at Sandringham are going to be a little smaller this year. After spending the past two Christmases with the rest of the royal family, Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as well as their new son, Archie, will be spending the holidays this year with Markle's mother, Doria Ragland.
The Palace spokesperson said in regards to the change, "This decision is in line with precedent set previously by other members of the Royal Family, and has the support of Her Majesty The Queen."
Usual traditions at the three-day event at Sandringham include multiple outfit changes a day, and many public walks to church (the most famous one on Christmas Day).
Prince William, Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry attending church service together in 2018.
This would not be the first time a royal couple has opted out of Christmas at Sandringham. In 2016, Kate Middleton and Prince William spent the holiday with Kate's family in Bucklebury and took Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
The announcement comes after reports that the Sussexes have a scheduled six-week break from royal duties. The family is already set to see Ragland in L.A. for Thanksgiving. It will be the first time Markle has returned to California since her wedding and mark six-month old Archie's first time in America.
A royal source told NBC News, "The Duke and Duchess have a full schedule of engagements and commitments until mid-November, after which they will be taking some much-needed family time."
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORY
-
Bella Hadid Swears By an $11 Foundation for Her Even Skin ToneThe supermodel's five-minute makeup routine is surprisingly low-key.
-
Prince William Gave Queen Elizabeth a Hilarious Nickname Because He Couldn't Pronounce "Granny"You'll never guess this one.
-
'Apple Cider Vinegar' Dramatizes How Two Journalists Uncovered Belle Gibson's Web of Lies—Here's How They Really DidThe Netflix true-crime hit is based on their book 'The Woman Who Fooled The World.'
-
Meghan Markle Reluctantly Tries Out Snow Tubing as Prince Harry Coaches Her: "Feet Up!""You'll be absolutely fine!" the Duke of Sussex assured his wife.
-
Meghan Markle Exudes Snow Bunny Style in a $1,250 Mackage Puffer at Invictus GamesThe Duchess of Sussex bundled up in luxury while visiting Whistler, Canada.
-
How Prince Archie Has Been Learning About His Grandma Princess Diana's Charity WorkPrince Harry shared that his 5-year-old son has become curious about one particular topic.
-
Prince Harry Shares an Emotional Update on How He and Meghan Markle Are Coping After Losing GuyHe made the revelation after meeting a 3-year-old service dog named Thorn at the Invictus Games.
-
Meghan Markle Resurrects Her 'Suits' Character With Witty Remark at the Invictus Games 2025The Duchess of Sussex has not forgotten Rachel Zane's iconic wardrobe choices.
-
Prince Harry Came Face to Face With a Funko Pop of Himself in a Sweet Moment with Kids at Invictus GamesSmall fans, big moment.
-
Meghan Markle Wears Olive Green for a Children's Story Time Event at the Invictus Games 2025The Duchess of Sussex arrived in a camel coat before revealing her coordinating sweater, skirt, and heels.
-
Meghan Markle's Latest Outfit Just Solved a 6-Year-Old Royal Fashion MysteryHer Invictus Games wardrobe includes a previously unidentified designer coat and a baby alpaca trench.
