This Christmas, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are embracing a decidedly “non-royal” approach to the holiday season, 

opting to forgo the traditional customs of the British royal family in favor of a more relaxed, “American style” celebration. 

Following reports that the couple has been officially excluded from the royal family’s holiday plans, they are charting their own course, 

focusing on creating a meaningful and personal holiday experience for their growing family in California. 

The shift marks yet another chapter in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s journey to redefine their roles and lives outside the confines of royal traditions.

Traditionally, the British royal family gathers at Sandringham Estate for Christmas, a highly regimented and formal occasion steeped in centuries of customs. 

From the annual Christmas Day church service to meticulously planned meals and even the exchange of gag gifts, the holiday is a reflection of the monarchy’s adherence to tradition. However, for Meghan and Harry, who stepped back from their roles as senior royals in 2020, these practices now feel like a distant memory. This year, the couple’s plans are centered around family, warmth, and creating new traditions that reflect their values and lifestyle.

The decision to celebrate away from the royal family comes amid continued reports of strained relations between Harry and other senior royals, particularly his father, King Charles III, and his brother, Prince William. While official statements from Buckingham Palace remain sparse, insiders suggest that Meghan and Harry’s exclusion from royal festivities was a foregone conclusion, especially after the release of Harry’s memoir, *Spare*, and the couple’s Netflix documentary earlier in the year. These projects, which offered candid insights into their struggles within the royal institution, reportedly deepened existing tensions, making reconciliation this holiday season unlikely.

Instead of dwelling on the estrangement, Meghan and Harry are focusing on their life in Montecito, California, where they reside with their two children, Archie and Lilibet. Their approach to the holidays is expected to be intimate and family-focused, with an emphasis on joy and togetherness rather than protocol and public appearances. Sources close to the couple describe their plans as rooted in “American-style” traditions, including decorating their home with festive flair, enjoying casual family meals, and perhaps even engaging in activities like baking cookies or watching holiday movies—a stark contrast to the formality of Sandringham.

For Meghan, who was born and raised in Los Angeles, this return to her cultural roots is particularly meaningful. Friends of the Duchess have noted that she has always valued the spirit of the holiday season, cherishing the opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. For Harry, this new approach represents not just a break from royal traditions but also an opportunity to provide his children with the kind of carefree and loving childhood he has often said he wished for himself.

Their decision to embrace a non-royal Christmas also reflects the couple’s broader commitment to carving out an independent identity. Since stepping back from royal duties, Meghan and Harry have consistently prioritized building a life that aligns with their values, from launching philanthropic initiatives to pursuing creative projects through their Archewell Foundation. This holiday season is no exception, as they seek to craft a celebration that feels authentic and fulfilling, away from the scrutiny and rigidity of royal expectations.

While some critics may view their break from tradition as yet another act of defiance, others see it as a natural progression for a couple determined to forge their own path. Supporters of Meghan and Harry argue that their decision to prioritize family and personal happiness over appearances is a powerful statement about the importance of self-determination and authenticity, even in the face of public pressure and familial estrangement.

As they prepare for their Christmas in California, Meghan and Harry are also reportedly mindful of the lessons they wish to impart to their children. By creating a holiday experience centered on love, inclusivity, and joy, they hope to instill values that will guide Archie and Lilibet throughout their lives. For the Sussexes, the holidays are not about adhering to tradition for tradition’s sake but about cultivating a sense of connection and gratitude.

Ultimately, this “very non-royal” Christmas underscores the evolution of Meghan and Harry’s journey as a family. While their ties to the monarchy remain a significant part of their story, they are increasingly focused on building a future that reflects who they are today. By embracing an American-style holiday, they are not only honoring Meghan’s heritage but also taking another step toward creating the life they envisioned when they chose to step back from royal duties.

For those who have followed the Sussexes’ journey, this Christmas serves as a reminder of their resilience and determination to prioritize what truly matters. As Meghan and Harry celebrate the season in their own way, they continue to navigate the complexities of their roles as former royals, parents, and public figures, all while staying true to their values. Whether decorating their California home or sharing quiet moments with their children, the couple is proving that joy and fulfillment can be found not in tradition alone but in the love and bonds they hold dear.

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