Why King Charles May Phase Out Queen Elizabeth's Holiday Traditions

Modernizing the monarchy, one festivity at a time.

King Charles III waited more than 70 years to ascend to the throne, and ever since taking his post in September 2022, he has slowly modernized the monarchy. Charles has slimmed down the monarchy, taken a stand on humanitarian issues by inviting faith leaders to Buckingham Palace, and is looking to launch an initiative to combat food waste, among other things. Now, he may be looking to institute some changes in the royal family's holiday traditions.

Charles's mom, the late Queen Elizabeth II, was quite passionate about the holiday season. She reportedly had a strict set of Christmas rituals that the royal family had to follow, from when she would arrive at Sandringham to when they would exchange gifts.

"Christmas at Sandringham has been absolutely central to the family for years, and that legacy looks certain to continue with Charles," royal expert Duncan Larcombe told the Mirror of the royals' Christmas plans this year.

Larcombe added that Elizabeth was fond of spending time at Sandringham, as it was where her father, King George VI, passed away in 1952.

While Charles is on board with congregating at the house in Norfolk, he may depart when it comes to other traditions.

"I don't think Charles will exactly rip up the rule book, but there's a strong chance he'll loosen some of the rules," Larcombe told the publication. "I think a lot of the more stoic aspects of Christmas were down to the Duke of Edinburgh, who was a stickler for timings. But I think the king is more relaxed about these things."

The royal expert suggests Charles may also allow certain discussions that were previously off-limits.

"Traditionally they've never been allowed to engage in political talk over dinner, and they can't leave the table until the monarch does," Larcombe said. "But again, those protocols may be gently phased out by Charles now."

Charles isn't the only family member behind some big royal holiday events. Princess Kate will reportedly be hosting a Christmas party to "rival" Charles and Queen Camilla's bash, as well as her annual Christmas concert.