How Does the Royal Family Celebrate New Year’s Eve? We Have Answers

With Christmas finally here, we can’t help but wonder how the British royal family will spend their New Year’s Eve. This time last year, the royals celebrated their first holiday season without Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away only a few months prior. And as a result, the family—and the rest of Britain—celebrated Christmas and New Year’s Eve under the rule of a newly appointed King Charles.

Before the queen’s passing, the royal family would typically spend New Year’s Eve at Her Majesty’s Norfolk country estate, Sandringham House, where she would host a party that continued past midnight. The following day, everyone attended the New Year’s Day service at St. Mary Magdalene Church, which is within walking distance from the royal residence. (Obviously, it made sense for the monarch to alter these plans during the coronavirus pandemic.)

The queen was usually accompanied by her son, Charles, and his wife, Camilla Parker Bowles, in addition to other members of the extended family. This included Zara Philips and her husband, Mike Tindall, along with Peter Philips and his wife, Autumn. (Plus, the great-grandkids.)

Although Kate Middleton also attended with Prince William in the past, there have been times where she would often alternate with her own family, so her presence at this year's festivities isn’t guaranteed. Who else won't be in attendance? Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, of course, who aren’t likely to travel across the pond.