Prince William Steps Out for Glam Buckingham Palace Reception as Kate Middleton Skips Event

The Princess of Wales' next expected appearance will be at her Christmas carol concert in December

Prince William joined King Charles and Queen Camilla for the Diplomatic Corps Reception at Buckingham Palace on Nov. 19, but Kate Middleton was notably absent from the annual event.

The white-tie gathering sees members of the royal family welcome hundreds of diplomats to the royal residence in London. The event is typically held in the first week of December and unofficially marks the start of the festive season, but this year it was likely moved up to accommodate next month’s state visit to the UK by the Emir of Qatar.

Although Kate has been a fixture at the glittering event in past years, her absence comes amid her ongoing recovery. The Princess of Wales, 42, has been gradually returning to royal duties after taking time to focus on her health following a cancer diagnosis earlier this year. Kate is also said to be dedicating her energy behind the scenes to preparations for her upcoming Christmas carol service on Dec. 6, which she will host for the fourth time at Westminster Abbey.

Related: Kate Middleton's Carol Service Has Meaningful Theme After 'Tough' Year: Decoding What She Chose

Last year’s reception marked a royal milestone for the royal family, as it was the first time the event was held since Charles and Camilla were crowned King and Queen at the May 2023 coronation.

Kate made headlines at last year’s reception when she wore the Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, a piece she has worn 11 times since her marriage to Prince William. She and William also memorably posed for a group photo with the newly crowned King and Queen. Her absence this year means royal fans will have to wait for another tiara moment from the future queen.

Kate's most recent public appearances were over Remembrance Day weekend when she joined the royal family for somber events on Nov. 9 and 10 to honor fallen service members.

The Diplomatic Corps Reception, held in the grand State Rooms of Buckingham Palace, is a key event on the royal calendar, where the royal family meets with ambassadors and diplomats from around the world.

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According to the Royal Collection Trust, it’s one of the largest gatherings at Buckingham Palace, with up to 1,000 guests. "The invitation list is coordinated by the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, and invitations are sent to all ambassadors and high commissioners at foreign missions in London, as well as past Prime Ministers, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, and other public figures," they explained.