Prince William and Kate’s 2025 Christmas Card Sparks Debate Online

Family portraits have long been a holiday tradition, and the royal family is no exception. However, when Prince William and Princess Catherine released their 2025 Christmas card, one detail immediately caught the internet’s attention and ignited widespread discussion.

A Royal Tradition

Each year, King Charles and his sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, share festive family photographs. These images highlight both major events of the year and intimate, behind-the-scenes moments.

The tradition of exchanging Christmas greetings dates back to the early 1800s. Handmade cards from Queen Victoria’s children are still preserved by the Royal Collection Trust. Publishing official family photos began later with King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Today, these portraits help the royals connect with the public and spread seasonal goodwill.

The 2025 Card

The card, unveiled on Kensington Palace’s social media accounts, features William and Catherine sitting in a grassy Norfolk field surrounded by their three children: Prince George, 12; Princess Charlotte, 10; and Prince Louis, seven.

In the serene spring setting, Charlotte rests her head on William’s shoulder while holding his arm. Louis leans comfortably against his father’s chest. Catherine wraps an arm around George, smiling warmly at the camera. The simple message reads:

“Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas.”

A Year of Challenges

The 2025 card follows a difficult period for the family. Prince William described 2024 as “brutal,” while Catherine fully recovered from cancer after her diagnosis in March 2024. Since then, the couple has largely stepped back from public life.

Speaking to The Times, William called the year “the hardest of my life.” Catherine’s remission marks a hopeful new chapter. The couple also relocated to Forest Lodge, an eight-bedroom home in Windsor Great Park, signaling a fresh start. Catherine recently hosted her fifth Together at Christmas carol service, honoring community heroes.

Christmas Plans with the King and Queen

According to the BBC, William and Catherine will celebrate Christmas Day with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Sandringham. The King and Queen shared their own card on December 7, commemorating their 20th wedding anniversary. The portrait, framed in deep red, carried the classic message: