King Charles has continued the cherished tradition of sending Christmas cards, following the footsteps of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Each December, the royal family shares a glimpse into their lives through these cards, which have become a beloved custom among royal followers.
The year 2024 presented significant challenges for the King, as both he and the Princess of Wales faced health issues. Despite these hurdles, King Charles maintained a spirit of resilience and duty. His Christmas greeting for 2024 featured a portrait of him and the Queen, arm in arm in the gardens of Buckingham Palace, symbolizing their commitment to facing adversity with grace.
The 2025 Christmas card marks a special occasion, showcasing a photograph taken during their 20th wedding anniversary at Villa Wolkonsky, the British ambassador’s residence in Rome. In this image, King Charles and Queen Camilla stand side by side, linked arm in arm. A dark red border frames the photograph, with a printed message on the opposite side reading: “Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year.”
A Tradition Rooted in History
The tradition of Christmas cards in the royal family began with Queen Elizabeth II, who sent out approximately 800 cards each year, starting the meticulous process of signing them in the summer. Her cards featured carefully posed portraits of the royal family, which were eagerly anticipated by the public. King Charles, as heir, embraced this tradition, infusing it with his own distinctive style.
His first Christmas card as King in 2022 was marked by a formal yet warm portrait, reflecting the solemnity of the role while also conveying a sense of connection with the public.
Adapting to Change
The royal Christmas cards have evolved through the decades, reflecting changes in family dynamics. Following his wedding to Diana, Princess of Wales in 1981, Charles and Diana’s first card as a married couple captured a moment of joy that resonated with a global audience. The arrival of their sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, added a family charm to their annual greetings, with the young princes often featured in posed family photographs.
The 1990s brought challenges, including the couple’s separation and subsequent divorce, which reshaped their family portrait. The children divided their time between parents, with cards featuring both Charles and Diana. Charles showcased his quirky sense of humor in the 1995 card, which depicted him flanked by William and Harry standing in oversized flowerpots.
Tragedy struck in 1997 with the death of Diana, a loss that profoundly impacted the royal family. Moving forward, the Christmas cards continued to evolve, capturing the blended family dynamic after Charles married Camilla in 2005. Their cards reflected shared joy, whether celebrating at races or engaging in tours together.
By 2020 and 2021, the Christmas greetings focused on quiet domesticity, highlighting tender moments and the couple’s connection during the pandemic.
King Charles’ Christmas cards not only celebrate the festive season but also tell a story of resilience, love, and the evolving nature of the royal family. Each card serves as a reminder of the personal and public challenges they have faced together, embodying the spirit of togetherness that the festive season represents.
