As the calendar approaches October, attention is already shifting towards the festive season for royal households. The Royal Collection Trust has announced the dates for the holiday decorations and visitor access at various regal residences.
One of the highlights for royal enthusiasts this Christmas is the adornment of Windsor Castle. Starting from November 27 until January 5, 2026, the public can explore the ornate festive displays, including a magnificent 20-foot Nordmann fir tree in St George’s Hall, sourced from Windsor Great Park as per tradition.
Visitors can marvel at a 16-foot tree in the Crimson Drawing Room and engage in arts and crafts activities, creating special keepsakes during their castle visits over the Christmas period.
Adding to the festive spirit, the Royal Mews shop at Buckingham Palace will be transformed into a winter wonderland this year, offering seasonal bestsellers for shoppers to discover.
In Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse near Edinburgh’s Royal Mile will be adorned from November 20 until January 5, 2026. The palace will feature grand Christmas trees in the Throne Room and Great Gallery, along with festive wreaths, garlands, and a beautifully set dining table for visitors to enjoy.
Special events at the Palace of Holyroodhouse include evening Christmas carol performances on December 9 and 10, and a Christmas activity day on December 13 with arts, crafts, and musical entertainment for all attendees.
Traditional Christmas celebrations will take place at Sandringham, where the monarch will host the Prince and Princess of Wales, along with other royal family members. However, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson are expected to be absent from the festivities due to recent press coverage of their connections to Jeffrey Epstein.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are unlikely to receive invitations and are anticipated to spend the holiday season in California with their children and Meghan’s mother. Meghan’s past Christmases with the royal family in 2017 and 2018 were notable, as she was invited to Sandringham before her wedding, a gesture not extended to Princess Kate or Duchess Sophie until after their marriages.
Overall, the upcoming holiday season promises a mix of traditional royal celebrations and newer festive transformations across various royal estates, offering visitors and royal fans a chance to experience the magic of Christmas in regal settings.
