Princess Kate finally confirms exciting festive plans with her family

LEAVE A COMMENT The Princess of Wales has confirmed her carol concert is set to return for 2026 as the royal family begins its Christmas preparations.

Catherine, 44, will preside over her "Together at Christmas" service at Westminster Abbey on 11 December, with more than 1,600 guests filling the pews.

The event, which is broadcast on Christmas Eve on ITV1, is typically attended by senior members of the royal family, as well as the couple's three children, Prince George, 13, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, eight.

This year, the guests will include people who have played an important role in supporting others in their communities, with further details to be announced in due course.

The televised service will feature traditional and contemporary Christmas music, and readings and performances from special guests.

Now in its sixth year, the service will celebrate the importance of love, kindness and caring for one another. In addition to the Westminster Abbey service, 15 Together At Christmas community carol services will take place across the UK, from the Shetland Isles to Devon.

The location also has a special significance for the royal, as it's where she and husband Prince William tied the knot back in 2011.

Last year, the Princess was joined by the Prince of Wales and their three children at the service in Westminster Abbey, which celebrated love in all its forms.

The royal mother of three was the Queen of Christmas in a festive coat from Catherine Walker, adding a fur stole by Troy London, and a tartan skirt.

Celebrities including actress Kate Winslet, singer Katie Melua and chef Dame Mary Berry were also in attendance, while Carole and Michael Middleton, Lady Sarah Chatto, Zara and Mike Tindall were also in attendance.

The concert paid a special tribute to the late Duchess of Kent, who passed away aged 92 on 4 September 2025, as upon arrival guests were welcomed with music by eight young performers who benefited from the work of her Future Talent charity.

One sweet moment saw the royal children head to the 'Connection Tree', inviting guests to add their names to the paper chain running across the tree, offering a rare glimpse of their handwriting.

And when the service aired, royal fans were treated to a special piano duet from Princess Catherine and Princess Charlotte, who expertly played Holm Sound, composed by Erland Cooper.

HELLO!'s Royal Editor, Emily Nash, who attended last year's service, noted: "Over five years now the Princess has pulled off a wonderful festive treat for her guests and somehow this one felt more personal than ever."

The extended royal family typically spends Christmas at Sandringham, including a church service on Christmas Day.

They then enjoy a sit-down lunch of roast turkey and trimmings at Sandringham House.

In the run-up to the holidays, King Charles usually hosts an annual pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace, also attended by senior royals.

Though they aren't expected to attend the main royal Christmas this year, HELLO! previously revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are making initial plans to spend their holidays in the UK.

It would mark the first time they've spent the festive season in England in eight years.

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