Inside Prince William and Prince Harry's tragically abandoned Christmas Eve tradition
Before the once close brothers' relationship fell apart, Princes William and Harry took part in an annual tradition for a great cause
Prince William and Harry reminisce about childhood
Prince William and Prince Harry, once close brothers, used to share a fun but now sadly forgotten tradition every Christmas Eve.
The Royal siblings for years would kick-start their festive season at Sandringham by participating in a charity football match with friends and estate staff.
The tradition saw the princes on opposing teams, battling it out on a pitch opposite the 12th-century home of Tory peer Lord Greville Howard.
However, this tradition abruptly ended in 2016 when neither brother showed up for the match, despite being invited.
Lord Howard commented at the time: "They were not expected. One does not like to ask why, but they have enjoyed playing in previous years."
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Just before the game was set to start, it was revealed that their cousin Zara Tindall had suffered a heartbreaking miscarriage.
Since then, their Christmas Eve football tradition has not resumed and due to the rift between them, it doesn't seem likely to return.
This year, William will be celebrating Christmas at Sandringham with Kate, George, Charlotte and Prince Louis, as King Charles hosts his first festive season as monarch.
On the other hand, Harry is expected to spend Christmas with Meghan Markle and their kids Archie and Lilibet in California. Although it's been rumoured they're 'warming' to the idea of joining the Royal family.
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The Royal family - now led by King Charles after Queen Elizabeth's death in 2021 - usually starts Christmas with a morning visit to St Mary Magdalene Church and meeting well-wishers.
After that, they will enjoy a family lunch with all the traditional trimmings.
As per tradition, the Royal family will follow this by watching The King's annual televised address after lunch, which typically airs at 3pm on December 25.
*** An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.***