### Royal Christmas: Absentees and New Faces at Sandringham

As the festive season approaches, the royal family is preparing for a Christmas gathering that promises to be both poignant and extravagant.

This year, however, there will be some notable absences alongside fresh faces gracing the dinner table at Sandringham.

Reports suggest that King Charles is aiming for a grand celebration, likely as a response to the challenges faced by him and his family, particularly concerning the health struggles of both himself and his daughter-in-law, Princess Catherine.

Among the most conspicuous absentees will be Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

While they may have received an invitation to spend the holiday with Princess Diana's family at Althorp, it seems they have not been extended an invite from King Charles himself.

This raises the question: will the Sussexes opt for a festive retreat in Montecito, California, or will they head to the UK?

Only time will reveal their plans.

Last year, King Charles notably omitted any mention of his son and daughter-in-law during his Christmas Day address to the nation.

In a message that echoed the Golden Rule, he emphasized the importance of treating others as one wishes to be treated.

Despite this, he is reportedly gearing up for a sizable Christmas party at Sandringham, welcoming numerous guests while seemingly sidelining Harry and Meghan along with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

The couple is said to be focusing on creating a magical holiday experience in California.

Meghan believes it's essential for their family to remain together in Montecito, especially given the pressures they've encountered recently.

They plan to celebrate with Meghan's mother, Doria, ensuring that their children enjoy a joyful day, even if it means missing out on extended family gatherings.

This year's royal festivities will unfold in the grand ballroom of Sandringham House, accommodating around 100 guests who can anticipate a lavish buffet-style feast complete with all the traditional trimmings.

The event is expected to be a resounding success, building on the positive reception of last year's similar gathering, which was well-received.

While the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not on the guest list, many other royals will be in attendance.

Prince William and Princess Catherine are expected to bring their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—along for the festivities.

Queen Camilla is also extending invitations to her own guests, including her son Tom Parker Bowles and his family, as well as her daughter Laura Lopes and her children.

Princess Anne, along with her son Peter Phillips and daughter Zara Tindall, will also join the celebrations, bringing their families along.

Additionally, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, along with their children Lady Louise Windsor and James Wessex, are anticipated to make an appearance.

Pregnant Princess Beatrice and her husband Eduardo Mapelli Mozzi are also expected, accompanied by their young daughter Sienna and Beatrice's stepson Wolfie.

In a surprising twist, Prince Andrew, who has faced significant scrutiny in recent years, has reportedly received an invitation as well.

He is expected to attend alongside his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson and their daughter Princess Eugenie, who will come with her husband Jack Brooksbank and their two children.

Despite speculation about the Sussexes traveling to the UK for the holidays, sources indicate that they will not be joining King Charles and the rest of the royal family this year.

One significant hurdle remains: Harry must resolve a ruling by the Home Office regarding police protection during UK visits.

Without this, their return appears unlikely.

Royal insiders suggest that tensions still linger between the Sussexes and the rest of the family, making any reunion improbable.

The King has dismissed claims of racism within the family as “extraordinary” and “unbelievable,” insisting they are far removed from reality.

Close associates of William and Catherine have expressed reluctance to share space with Harry and Meghan, highlighting the ongoing rift.

Last week, the couple missed important remembrance events in the UK, opting instead to film a video from California at a conference focused on violence against children.

This further underscores the challenges in mending familial ties, leaving the idea of a shared Christmas with the royal family feeling rather far-fetched.