King Charles is preparing to spend the Christmas holiday with his grandchildren in the UK, following reports that Meghan Markle’s plans for Archie and Lilibet’s holiday celebrations have disappointed her father-in-law.
According to the Daily Express, the royal tradition of “togetherness at Christmas” — a motto established by Queen Elizabeth II for her festive gatherings — is expected to continue under King Charles’s reign. Royal expert Robert Jobson spoke with OK! Magazine about how this value remains close to the King’s heart, especially during the holiday season. “It’s a lovely chance to see his grandchildren,” Jobson said. “He’ll be surrounded by those he cherishes most, enjoying the chance to eat, drink, and be merry with them.”
Despite the warm family atmosphere anticipated, royal expert Duncan Larcombe predicts that the Christmas gathering will also bring some “chaos.” With children from the Tindall, Beatrice, and Eugenie families joining, Larcombe anticipates a holiday dominated by the joyful noise of young ones. “Throw in the Tindalls’ three plus Beatrice and Eugenie’s kids, and it will be chaos,” he explained.
However, while King Charles looks forward to spending the festive season with his grandchildren, Meghan Markle’s decision to celebrate Christmas with her mother, Doria Ragland, at their Montecito home in California has reportedly left the King disappointed. The Sussex family’s decision to stay in the U.S. for the holidays has been met with some dismay, as King Charles had hoped for the opportunity to reunite with Archie and Lilibet in person.
According to a Closer report, Meghan, Harry, and their children will celebrate both Christmas and Thanksgiving with Doria in their California mansion, leaving the King longing for the chance to see his California-based grandchildren. This decision highlights the ongoing distance between the Sussex family and the royal household, with King Charles reportedly eager to spend more time with his grandchildren despite the geographical divide.
As King Charles prepares for a more traditional Christmas gathering with his other relatives, the absence of Archie and Lilibet will be felt, adding to the ongoing complexities within the royal family during the holiday season.
