Family portraits have long been a cherished part of Christmas traditions, and royal households are no exception. Each year, festive cards offer a carefully curated glimpse into royal family life—equal parts personal reflection and public symbolism.

So when the Prince and Princess of Wales unveiled their 2025 Christmas card, it didn’t take long for one unexpected detail to spark lively discussion across social media.

For generations, members of the British royal family—including King Charles and his sons, Prince William and Prince Harry—have shared holiday images that reflect both milestone moments and quieter snapshots of family life. The tradition itself stretches back to the early 19th century, when Queen Victoria’s children sent handmade Christmas cards, many of which are now preserved by the Royal Collection Trust.

The custom of releasing official royal family photographs developed later, during the reign of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, and has continued ever since as a way to connect with the public during the festive season.

But when Prince William and Princess Catherine released their 2025 card, the conversation quickly shifted from tradition to timing.

The image, shared via Kensington Palace’s official social media accounts, shows the family seated in a grassy field in Norfolk, surrounded by flowers. William and Catherine sit close together with their three children—Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven—clustered affectionately around them.

Charlotte rests her head on her father’s shoulder, holding his arm, while Louis leans comfortably against William’s chest. Catherine wraps an arm around George, smiling warmly at the camera. The card itself carries a simple message:
“Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas.”

While many praised the image for its intimacy and relaxed family dynamic, others were left wondering whether it truly captured the spirit of the season.

“Where is the Christmas?” one social media user asked bluntly.