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The Royal Family’s Christmas: A Blend of Tradition and Humor
The Royal Family's Christmas celebration is far from ordinary.
While they do partake in quintessentially British Yuletide customs like attending church services and relishing a grand roast dinner, there is a unique twist that sets their festivities apart – the exchange of amusing gifts that poke fun at one another.
This regal tradition adds a touch of unexpected humor and keeps the festive season light-hearted within the palace walls.
The royal family's laughter knows no bounds, especially when it comes to the annual tradition of gifting each other whimsical presents.
From singing hamsters to grow-your-own girlfriend kits, the royals indulge in a bit of holiday hilarity.
One particular moment stands out in this tradition, involving Princess Anne presenting her elder brother, King Charles, with a Christmas gift that left everyone in stitches.
The Royal Family's festive antics have roots in the historical Germanic practice, where presents are unwrapped on Christmas Eve.
On this special evening, the Queen's grandchildren and great-grandchildren gather to decorate a towering 20-foot Christmas tree in the White Dining Room.
The presents, often inexpensive and humorous, are laid out on a white, linen-covered table in the Red Drawing Room, ready for the royal recipients.
Among the multitude of amusing gifts exchanged over the years, Princess Anne's choice for her brother King Charles remains a standout moment.
According to royal expert Katie Nicholl, the key to a successful royal Christmas gift lies in its tongue-in-cheek nature, eliciting laughter from the Queen.
The more kitsch, the better, as lavish or extravagant gifts don't resonate well with a monarch.
Former royal butler Peter Burrell sheds light on the peculiar tastes of the royal family, stating, “Of course, the royals love lavatorial humor.
It's the public school upbringing.”
And why wouldn't Prince Charles appreciate a white, leather loose seat from his sister Anne?
The seemingly random choice of a leather-bound toilet seat had a clever underlying joke.
Former royal press secretary Dickie Arbiter explains that the term “throne” is often colloquially used to refer to a toilet.
Thus, Princess Anne's choice of a leather-bound loose seat was her way of playfully saying, “Here you are, you've got your own personal throne.”
This amusing gift not only showcased Princess Anne's wit but also highlighted the close bond between the siblings.
In a world often perceived as formal and reserved, the royal family's willingness to engage in playful banter during the holiday season humanizes them, endearing them to the public.
