As the holiday season approaches, the royal family is typically seen gathering at Sandringham, but this year, Prince William and Catherine Middleton are contemplating a more subdued celebration.

Their decision hinges on certain unresolved issues within the family dynamics.

Meanwhile, King Charles is gearing up for an extravagant Christmas gathering, set to host around 100 royal guests, though the absence of Harry and Meghan from the festivities adds a layer of intrigue to the situation.

Last week, Buckingham Palace aides began gauging interest among family members regarding participation in the traditional Christmas feast.

This year, Sandringham House is expected to welcome a significant number of attendees, with plans for a buffet-style roast accompanied by a lavish selection of classic holiday trimmings.

Following a successful trial last year in the ballroom, the royal family seems eager to replicate that experience.

However, amidst the bustling preparations, it’s clear that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will not be part of the celebration.

Reports suggest that they are unlikely to return to the UK for the holidays, as their absence opens the door for Queen Camilla’s family to join the festivities.

Guests will include her son Tom Parker Bowles, daughter Lara Lopes, and her five grandchildren, filling the space that would have otherwise been occupied by the Sussexes.

While Prince Harry appears determined to spend Christmas in the UK, Meghan reportedly has other plans.

Sources indicate that she would prefer to focus on resolving lingering personal issues rather than participate in the royal celebrations.

This desire for a quieter holiday reflects a broader sentiment of wanting to step back from the public eye amid ongoing family tensions.

Princess Catherine, who is set to host an annual carol service, seems to have inadvertently overshadowed Meghan’s aspirations for a spotlight moment this Christmas.

The Duchess of Cambridge is keen to strengthen her ties with Hollywood figures, while Meghan’s attempts to launch her business venture, American Riviera Orchard, have faced hurdles, including regulatory challenges and online mockery over its lack of products.

In a subtle twist, when William received a jar of sour fig jam during a barbecue in South Africa, many speculated it was a pointed jab at Meghan.

Royal family photos rarely happen by chance, leading to the impression that William may have been intentionally teasing his brother’s wife.

Additionally, Catherine recently shared a festive invitation card video that further hinted at the ongoing rivalry.

Despite these tensions, Catherine seems to harbor goodwill toward Harry.

Reports suggest she reached out to him on his 40th birthday, making a genuine effort to maintain connections within the family.

This gesture stands in stark contrast to the criticisms leveled against her in Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” where he disparaged her character.

Insiders reveal that Catherine is committed to fostering peace and reconciliation between Harry and the rest of the royal family.

Her efforts appear to resonate with Harry, who reportedly appreciated the outreach on his birthday, indicating a desire for healing amidst the estrangement.

However, getting William on board with publicly acknowledging Harry’s birthday proved to be a challenge.

Despite Harry’s multiple visits to the UK this year, he met with his father only once after King Charles’s cancer announcement, underscoring the strained familial relations.

The absence of public birthday wishes from the Sussexes on the King’s recent 76th birthday further illustrates their position outside the family fold.

Both Harry and Meghan seem to navigate their lives on the periphery, grappling with health concerns and personal issues while remaining distanced from royal traditions.

As the royal family prepares for the holidays, the dynamics between William, Catherine, Harry, and Meghan continue to unfold, leaving many wondering what the future holds for this iconic family.

Will they find common ground, or will the rifts deepen as they navigate this festive season?

Only time will tell.