Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chose to spend Christmas at home in California with their children, Archie and Lilibet, prioritizing creating new family memories and traditions.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex declined an invitation to celebrate the holiday at Althorp House, the estate of Princess Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer, and instead focused on enjoying the festive season at their Montecito residence.
Meghan emphasized the importance of giving their children “connective memories” of family holidays, such as traditions like putting out carrots for reindeer.
Although Harry maintains a close relationship with Earl Spencer, the couple has not spent Christmas with the royal family since 2018. Instead, they spent the holiday with Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, and continued to enjoy their growing family’s holiday experiences.
This decision comes after reports that the Sussexes did not receive an invitation from the royal family to join them at Sandringham, where King Charles III and Queen Camilla celebrated the holiday with other royals.