Meghan Markle set to be first royal fiancée to spend Christmas with the Queen

The couple are expected to marry in 2018
PA
Alexandra Richards3 December 2017

Meghan Markle looks set to break royal tradition as she prepares to celebrate Christmas with the Queen at Sandringham.

Ms Markle will be opening presents with the Queen on December 24, a tradition not usually extended to the partners of royals until after they are married, experts said.

The US born actress, who is due to marry Prince Harry in 2018, will join her fiancé for a black tie dinner, a full English breakfast and a pheasant shoot over the festive period.

The Sunday Times reported that Prince Harry asked the Queen to make an exception in order for Ms Markle to join the family for Christmas.

Prince Harry & Meghan Markle visit Terrence Higgins Trust, Nottingham

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The Duchess of Cambridge did not spend Christmas with the Royal family after her engagement to Prince William was announced in 2010.

Prince Harry and Ms Markle are expected to spending Christmas Eve through to Boxing Day with the Queen, before going abroad to celebrate the new year.

A close friend of Prince Harry’s told the Sunday Times: “Now they are engaged it was unthinkable that they would be apart for Christmas. The Royal Family have fully welcomed Meghan into the fold.”

The family traditionally gathers on Christmas Eve for tea with the Queen before younger members finish off decorating the tree in the drawing room.

Guests then exchange gifts before attending a black-tie dinner. The following day a full English breakfast is served before the family attend the St Mary Magdalene Church on the estate. Christmas lunch is then served at Sandringham House.

The Queen delivers her speech at 3pm where it is anticipated she will congratulate Prince Harry and Ms Markle on their engagement.

Ms Markle is expected not to take part on the Boxing Day pheasant shoot as she is opposed to blood sports.

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