Zara Tindall has publicly confirmed the Royal Family's Christmas plans, offering a glimpse into the Windsor clan's festive traditions during a period overshadowed by the ongoing scandal involving Prince Andrew.
Festive Plans Confirmed Amidst Controversy
The Royal Family is preparing for its traditional Christmas celebrations, which will proceed despite the controversy surrounding the Duke of York. Zara Tindall, 44, daughter of Princess Anne, broke the family's silence on upcoming festivities while attending the 2025 Beauty Awards in London with her husband, Mike Tindall, 47.
Zara looked stunning in a black Rebecca Vallance dress with crystal embellishments, while former rugby star Mike appeared dapper in a smart navy blue suit. When asked about their Christmas plans, Zara revealed to Marie Claire: "We are so lucky, Christmas is always amazing. We get to do a lot of fun things, and the place looks amazing. We will see everyone."
She confirmed the family will attend their usual festive gatherings, including Princess Kate's popular carol service, Together at Christmas. Other long-standing traditions include the family's customary stroll to church on Christmas Day in Sandringham and King Charles's yearly message.
The Shadow of the Andrew Scandal
The run-up to Christmas has been dominated by controversy surrounding Prince Andrew, 65, and his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, 66, due to their connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
This month, the US Congress requested Andrew to testify about his association with the disgraced financier, as part of the US House Oversight Committee's investigation into Epstein's sex trafficking ring. The King's brother failed to respond to the committee within their two-week deadline and strongly refutes all allegations against him.
The ongoing situation has led to significant consequences for Andrew, including being compelled to vacate his long-standing residence at the Royal Lodge and permanently relinquish his royal titles.
Navigating a Family Christmas
With Andrew set to relocate to a property on the King's privately owned Sandringham estate in January, reports indicate this timing will ensure he avoids encounters with other senior royals over the Christmas period.
It is widely reported that Andrew and Fergie have not been invited to join King Charles and his family for the festivities. However, their daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, are reportedly still welcome.
Despite the glamorous red carpet event, Mike Tindall quipped that it wasn't their typical "ideal date night," confessing they usually prefer something "very low key." He elaborated that their favourite way to spend time together typically involves "food, telly and a glass of vino."
