The Independent

The best (and worst) royal Christmas cards of all time

Source: Kensington Palace/PA

Holiday cards are an annual tradition enjoyed by friends and family each Christmas season. Throughout the years, the British royal family has made it their own tradition to send out a Christmas card every year - whether it’s featuring their children or a moment taken during a memorable state visit.

This year, the Prince and Princess of Wales released their 2023 Christmas card, a black and white family portrait showcasing their grown-up children: Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five. Meanwhile, King Charles III and Queen Camilla opted for a photograph taken during their coronation in May as their Christmas Card this year.

As for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, they decided to send out a virtual card that highlights the charitable work they’ve done through their Archewell Foundation.

While you can never go wrong with a sweet family portrait, the royal family has delivered a handful of not-so-memorable Christmas cards from time to time. In honour of the festive spirit, here are some of the best and worst royal Christmas cards over the years.

2023: The Prince and Princess of Wales pose for black and white portrait

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children for 2023 Christmas card (Josh Shinner/Kensington Palace/PA)

For this year’s Christmas card, Prince William and Kate Middleton looked like something out of a fashion magazine with their laid-back family portrait. The royal couple are seen standing front and center while their eldest son, George, stands at his mother’s side. Meanwhile, William rests his hand on Louis’ shoulder as Charlotte sits in a chair with her legs crossed.

It marked one

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