For kids at Christmastime, it’s all about the yummy treats and opening up a pile of presents from Santa Claus. But when you’re a member of the royal family there are other traditions to follow as well.
Christmas of 2019 was no different for the British royals, who were filmed leaving Sandringham House and walking over to St. Mary Magdalene Church for a special service. This year, however, there were two additional members part of their annual tradition – Prince George and Princess Charlotte!
While the kids captured everyone’s attention the moment they made their appearance, it was the young princess that seemed to steal the show after church.
Queen Elizabeth II led her family out of St. Mary Magdalene Church festively dressed in red.
Everyone else followed, including Princess Charlotte who walked alongside her mother, the Duchess of Cambridge. Prince William clutched onto his son’s hand as they made their way towards a group of well-wishers observing from chairs.
Immediately the small family began greeting all those who came to watch.
Surely the royal kids are used to crowds – but being only four and six, they still seemed a tiny bit shy too. According to TODAY, baby Prince Louis remained at home during the tradition.
The people in the crowd had huge smiles on their faces as Prince William, Duchess Catherine, and their beautiful children stopped and spoke with them.
Princess Charlotte was as cute as a button following her mom’s lead with the well-wishers.
At one point though, she spotted that someone brought her a present – a pink inflatable flamingo! She gladly accepted it from the woman who was sitting in a wheelchair. The princess then gave her an amazing gift in return, a big hug. It’s a sight that’s melted the internet’s heart.
As reported by TIME, Sandringham has been where the British royal family’s Christmas has taken place since 1988. The estate is located in Norfolk, England.
This year, Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, didn’t attend the annual festivities. Instead, they celebrated it as new parents with their son and the Duchess’ mother.
In a statement that was released in November, it was said that they had the Queen’s blessing on the decision.
There are many other Christmas traditions enjoyed by the British royals in addition to their annual church service.
According to their website, the family members exchange presents on Christmas Eve after teatime. They also explain:
“All members of The Royal Household will receive Christmas presents from The Queen, and Her Majesty will personally hand out presents to some members of The Royal Household at Buckingham Palace and at Windsor Castle.”
Another tradition that stems from King George VI and King George V involves Christmas pudding. Queen Elizabeth II gifts her staff the treat, which is accompanied by a card. Approximately 1,500 puddings are distributed throughout the palaces.
Her Majesty also donates money to good causes, along with Christmas trees to churches and schools.
People around the world are fascinated by the British royal family, who give everyone glimpses into their lives. Now with a new generation of youngsters in the mix, it can turn certain traditions into some very aww-worthy moments.
Watch the video below to see Princess Charlotte so sweetly greet the crowd and give out a hug. She’s just so precious!
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