Christmas is a time that transcends cultures, borders and, of course, noble titles. Although they may seem worlds apart, Europe’s royal families also have their own holiday traditions, many of them passed down for generations. From lavish banquets to intimate family gatherings, the continent’s monarchies show us that, even under the pomp and protocol, Christmas remains a time of togetherness and celebration.
Their lives seem far from everyday reality, but European monarchies celebrate Christmas with traditions that mix the solemn and the familiar. From lavish palace banquets to creative family activities, royal households remember that this season is, above all, a celebration of togetherness and generosity. And, like everyone, they eagerly await the arrival of the Three Wise Men to close another chapter of these festivities.
The British royal family: tradition as a standard
The British monarchy, famous for its attachment to tradition, celebrates Christmas with a well-defined calendar. It all starts with a lunch at Buckingham Palace attended by the wider members of the royal family, including the Dukes of Kent and Gloucester. Later, the nuclear family moves to Sandringham, where they spend the holidays. The best-known moment is the walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church on December 25 to attend morning mass. This year, King Charles III will lead the march alongside Queen Consort Camilla, the Princes of Wales, William and Kate, and their three children: George, Charlotte and Louis. However, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, will celebrate in California, maintaining their usual distance.
In addition to public traditions, the Windsors have private customs, such as exchanging humorous gifts on Christmas Eve and a soccer match that once pitted Princes William and Harry against one another. This year, recent scandals have left Prince Andrew out of the family celebration.
The principality of Monaco: a community Christmas
In Monaco, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene continue a tradition started by Grace Kelly: a Christmas party at the Palace for the children of the small nation. The little ones receive gifts and enjoy an event full of magic, in which Prince Albert himself has come to dress as Santa Claus. For the princes’ children, the twins Jacques and Gabriella, December is doubly special, as they celebrate their birthday on the 10th of this month. This year, the little ones turned nine years old and, as always, they have been the center of attention in the principality’s festivities.
The Netherlands: between Sinterklaas and the Argentine connection
In the Netherlands, Christmas starts early thanks to Sinterklaas, which is celebrated on December 6. This holiday marks the beginning of the festivities for the royal family, which on many occasions has taken the opportunity to travel to Argentina, Queen Máxima’s native country. King William Alexander and Máxima usually enjoy the holidays at Villa La Angostura, along with their three daughters: Amalia, Alexia and Ariane. In previous years, the princesses have participated in the arrival of Sinterklaas to the Royal Palace, a tradition in which the saint arrives by boat while being welcomed by the family. The king’s Christmas message, recorded in advance, is broadcast on Christmas Day, a detail that connects it with the tradition established by the late Queen Elizabeth II in the United Kingdom.
Belgium: music and solidarity
The Belgian royal family combines music and solidarity in their celebrations. Every year, the Royal Palace opens its doors for a special Christmas concert, performed by the Royal Guard Symphony Orchestra, and broadcast live to the public. Princess Leonor, the youngest of the four children of Kings Philip and Matilda, has a prominent role in the festivities: she receives the “Light of Peace”, a Christmas tradition linked to Belgian scouts.
Sweden: creativity and family warmth
In Sweden, the royal family welcomes Christmas with activities that reflect their closeness. Crown Princess Victoria, her husband, Prince Daniel, and their children, Estelle and Oscar, often share videos doing Christmas activities, such as decorating the tree, baking cookies, or making ornaments. The Christmas Eve dinner is held at Drottningholm Palace, bringing together the entire royal family. This year, the celebrations will have an even more special air with the arrival of a new member: Princess Sofia, wife of Prince Carl Philip, is expecting her fourth child.
Norway: Alpine tradition and historical gratitude
The Norwegian royal family spends Christmas at the Royal Lodge, an estate located on the outskirts of Oslo. There, they enjoy winter sports, especially skiing in the nearby mountains. Every year, Norway sends a huge Christmas tree to the United Kingdom as a thank you for its support during World War II. This iconic fir tree adorns Trafalgar Square in London, symbolizing the friendship between both countries.
Denmark: between rice pudding and Queen Margaret
In Denmark, Queen Margaret leads the festivities with her family, beginning on December 23 with the decoration of the tree at the Palace. Some decorations are made by the queen herself, adding a personal touch to the tradition. On the 24th, the royal family enjoys a dinner that includes a typical dessert of rice pudding, where a whole almond is hidden. Whoever finds it receives a small prize. The queen reserves her speech for New Year’s Eve, a moment highly anticipated by the Danes.
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