Why Meghan Markle was given a rare pass on Christmas in Sandringham

Meghan Markle was granted a rare and highly symbolic exception to one of the Royal Family’s strictest Christmas traditions when she spent Christmas Day at Sandringham before she was officially married into the family.

The Duchess of Sussex married Prince Harry in May 2018, but she joined the Royal Family for Christmas celebrations at Sandringham in December 2017 while the couple were still engaged.

This was seen as a significant and unusual move by the late Queen Elizabeth II, who was famously careful about protocol.

Traditionally, invitations to Sandringham for Christmas are limited strictly to married members of the family. Partners are not usually invited until after a wedding has taken place, making Meghan’s early inclusion a major departure from convention.

By contrast, Kate Middleton did not attend Christmas at Sandringham until December 2011, several months after marrying Prince William.

Royal commentator Richard Kay described Meghan’s invitation as a “rare exception” during Channel 5’s 2021 documentary Harry and Meghan Vs The Monarchy. Reflecting on the decision, he said it marked a striking break from precedent.

“Talk about a baptism of fire,” Kay explained. “Here was a rare exception being made. Princess Catherine was not invited as William’s girlfriend to spend Christmas at Sandringham with the royals. But here was Meghan doing just that.”

The rule has historically been applied with firmness, even to senior figures. Sarah Ferguson was famously excluded from royal Christmas celebrations following her divorce from Prince Andrew in 1996.

Grant Harrold, who served as butler to King Charles also highlighted the significance of Meghan’s invitation.

“The Queen is very strict when it comes to family, and so to be invited was quite a significant thing,” Harrold explained. “I’m sure Meghan Markle was absolutely terrified.”