Sussexes Opt for UK Christmas Amid Royal Rift

Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan are planning to spend their first Christmas in Britain as a family of four. This will be their inaugural holiday season in the U.K. since moving back from California. They are expected to be joined by Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, for the celebrations.

This choice contrasts with earlier reports that suggested the couple might return to the U.S. for the holidays. Their decision to remain in Britain occurs amidst a backdrop of ongoing familial tension, stemming from their 2020 step back from senior royal roles. The couple last celebrated Christmas with the royal family in 2018.

Christmas is a significant event for the British royals, marked by traditions such as festive cards, pre-Christmas lunches hosted by the King, and the annual carol service. Historically, the family gathers at Sandringham for a Christmas Day church service. The monarch also delivers a widely watched annual speech reflecting on the year's events.