Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may spend Christmas in the UK for the first time in eight years, according to Hello Magazine. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are said to be making early holiday plans that would also include Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland. Any trip would depend on what Doria decides to do, and the arrangements are still believed to be unconfirmed. If the couple do travel, it would mark a notable shift after several holiday seasons spent in California following their move away from royal duties.
Meghan Markle Includes Doria Ragland in Holiday Plans
The couple are understood to hope for a family-centered Christmas rather than a larger royal gathering. Reports indicate they are not expected to join King Charles and the wider royal family for the festive period. A previous source told The Times the idea would be "too awkward and too difficult," with no invitation expected. That points instead to a quieter celebration built around Meghan, Harry, their children, and Doria. Archie and Lilibet’s school schedule may also shape the timing, especially with Thanksgiving falling late in November.
Meghan Markle Starts Christmas Preparations Early
The Duchess of Sussex has already been laying the groundwork for the season through her As Ever lifestyle brand. She previously shared that planning for a holiday collection began back in June, showing how early the household’s Christmas preparations were underway. New items have included an advent calendar inspired by the family’s Montecito home. Royal watchers will also be waiting to see whether the couple release another Christmas card, after last year’s family images offered a more personal glimpse of life at home than their usual charity-focused holiday messages.
Prince Harry and Meghan Shared a Cozy Holiday Tradition
Last year, the family spent Christmas together in the United States, with Meghan describing a relaxed day indoors. "I plan to spend today cuddled up with my family - maybe pajamas all day, some Scrabble or Sequence (or Candyland for the kids), music playing, candles flickering, dogs snoring, endless grazing; the laughter, the sidebars, the deep breaths (you know the ones), the fun, and the memories," Meghan wrote, according to Hello Magazine. The picture she painted was intimate and low-key, centered on games, food, and time with the children.
Prince Harry Last Spent Royal Christmas at Sandringham
Harry and Meghan last celebrated Christmas with the royal family at Sandringham in 2018. Meghan attended as Harry’s fiancée, a rare break from royal custom at the time. They joined Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince William, and Princess Catherine for church and the traditional holiday meal. Harry later reflected warmly on an earlier royal Christmas, saying: "The family loved having her there. I think together, we had an amazing time," Harry told the BBC. Since then, the couple have spent the festive season in Canada and later in California.
