How Does the Royal Family Celebrate New Year?

Have you ever wondered how the British royal family celebrates the start of a new year? Do they stay up until midnight, watch fireworks, or eat 12 grapes like they do in Spain?

While Christmas traditions often take the spotlight, the royals have their own unique New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day customs.

Historically, the late Queen Elizabeth II would host family gatherings at Sandringham House, her Majesty’s estate in Norfolk. These parties were said to last well past midnight, as it was considered inappropriate for anyone to retire before the Queen herself.

On New Year’s Day, the royal family usually attends church at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham. The rest of the day is often spent outdoors, enjoying activities such as horseback riding and pheasant shooting.

Royal author Brian Hoey revealed that the Queen had a fun tradition called ‘lucky dip.’ This game involved a tub filled with sawdust, where slips of paper with New Year predictions were hidden for family members to discover.

For Prince William and Princess Kate, New Year’s is typically spent with Kate’s family. As for Prince Harry and Meghan, they haven’t joined royal New Year celebrations since stepping down as senior working royals in 2020.

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