Royal Christmas Traditions: Gifts for the Queen and Beyond
Royal Gift-Giving Customs
Gift-giving among the Royal Family is a distinguished yet modest affair. Unlike the average household, the Royal Family’s tradition is to exchange gifts around Christmas Eve rather than Christmas Day.The idea of giving extravagant gifts is not within their customs. Instead, they choose thoughtful, clever, and jokey presents that reflect care and affection. These presents are often homemade, reflecting the family’s desire to maintain a personal touch during the festive period.
One memorable present is the corgi-shaped soaps from Prince Andrew to the Queen, which she was fond of. More recently, the Duchess of Cambridge, before her marriage, gave the Queen a jar of homemade chutney, a gesture that pleased the Queen immensely when it appeared on her breakfast table.
Unique Christmas Gifts
Princess Diana's Gift to Her Mother-in-Law
A notable example of a royal gift is that of Princess Diana, who famously gave her mother-in-law, the Queen, yellow rubber washing up gloves with a fur-lined collar for Christmas. This gift embodies the ironic and humorous nature of royal traditions, adding a touch of amusement to the festive season.
Another interesting gift was given by Princess Catherine, wife of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge. She presented her grandmother with a handmade pickle or chutney using fruit from her estate, following a grandmother's recipe.
The Queen's Gifts to Her Family
As for the Queen herself, there is speculation about the gifts she may receive or give. Some suggest that she does receive Christmas gifts, but these are likely modest and thoughtful. One famous anecdote is about Prince Harry, who reportedly gave the Queen a shower cap with the phrase "Aint life a bitch" written on it—though there is no evidence she ever wore it.
It is believed that these gifts, regardless of their value, tend to end up as donations to charity. Though exact information is scarce, this practice underscores the Royal Family's commitment to modesty and humility. The sources of these anecdotes are often unverified, making it crucial to approach these stories with a critical eye.
For those interested in learning more about the Queen's Christmas gift-giving traditions, the article Kate Middleton Reveals What She Gave the Queen for Christmas may offer further insights.
In conclusion, the Royal Family’s gift-giving customs reflect their unique cultural heritage and traditions. While the Queen and her family may not exchange lavish gifts, their thoughtful and personal presents highlight the importance of love and unity during the festive season.