Royal family traditions offer a fascinating glimpse into a world steeped in history and protocol. At hudsonfamily.net, we understand the curiosity surrounding these customs, which range from grand ceremonial events to intimate family practices. Join us as we explore the most significant and intriguing traditions that shape the lives of the British Royal Family, providing a unique perspective on their enduring legacy. Discover how royal customs and lineage impact modern family life.
1. Why Do Royals Exchange Silly Christmas Gifts?
The royal family upholds a tradition of exchanging inexpensive, humorous Christmas presents to showcase their sense of humor, rooted in their German heritage. According to Jeremy Archer’s research in “A Royal Christmas: How the Royal Family has Celebrated Christmas Through the Ages,” this tradition adds a lighthearted touch to their festive celebrations. Meghan Markle once gifted Queen Elizabeth II a singing toy hamster, while Kate Middleton reportedly gave Prince Harry a ‘Grow Your Own Girlfriend’ kit.
Prince William and Kate Middleton receive a gift during a visit to a Fish Fry in the Bahamas
Alt text: Prince William and Kate Middleton accepting a gift during a visit to a Fish Fry, showcasing their engagement with local customs.
2. Why Are Heirs Supposed to Travel Separately?
While not strictly enforced today, a protocol dictates that direct heirs to the British throne should avoid traveling together on the same plane to safeguard the royal lineage. This tradition ensures that an heir is always available to assume the throne, should a disaster occur. According to royal protocols, this rule was more critical when air travel was deemed riskier. However, Prince William has traveled with his children, who are directly in line to the throne, on numerous occasions.
Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children on the balcony of Buckingham Palace
Alt text: Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children on the Buckingham Palace balcony, illustrating the modern royal family.
3. What Is the Significance of Welsh Gold Wedding Rings?
For over a century, British royal family members have traditionally used Welsh gold to craft their wedding rings. Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother’s wedding ring, made from Clogau St David’s gold mine, set this precedent. King Charles, Queen Camilla, Meghan Markle, and the Princess of Wales also wear Welsh gold wedding rings, often made from Clogau gold. This enduring tradition symbolizes the family’s connection to Welsh heritage and lasting commitment.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leaving Windsor Castle after their wedding
Alt text: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in a carriage after their wedding, highlighting the tradition of Welsh gold wedding rings.
4. Why Do Royals Share Official Birthday Photographs?
Many royals share new portraits on their birthdays to keep the public informed and thank fans for their well wishes. It has become a tradition for the Prince and Princess of Wales to release pictures of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis on their birthdays. These images provide a charming glimpse into the lives of the royals as they grow older, fostering a connection with the public.
Prince George and Princess Charlotte on the balcony during Trooping the Colour
Alt text: Prince George and Princess Charlotte on the balcony during Trooping the Colour, emphasizing the tradition of sharing birthday portraits.
5. What Happens at the Trooping the Colour Ceremony?
The Trooping the Colour ceremony, held annually in June, marks the monarch’s official birthday and is attended by nearly every member of the royal family. This grand event includes a royal salute from the troops, an inspection of the military by the monarch, and a parade around London. The royal family gathers on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch the Royal Air Force fly-past, a tradition dating back 260 years.
The Royal Family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour
Alt text: The Royal Family on the Buckingham Palace balcony during Trooping the Colour, celebrating the monarch’s official birthday.
6. What Is the Significance of the Royal Baby Easel?
Although royal births are announced via social media in today’s digital age, the tradition of mounting an easel outside Buckingham Palace with the birth details remains. This tradition, which began decades ago when the easel was the only means of public announcement, includes the location, newborn’s name, and baby’s weight. The royal baby easel serves as a symbolic gesture, maintaining a connection to the past.
The royal baby easel outside Buckingham Palace
Alt text: The royal baby easel outside Buckingham Palace, displaying the details of a new royal birth.
7. Why Is a Sprig of Myrtle Included in Wedding Bouquets?
Since Princess Victoria’s wedding in 1858, royal brides have carried a sprig of myrtle in their bridal bouquets. The myrtle used in her bouquet came from a bush grown from sprigs given to Queen Victoria. This tradition has been a part of every bride’s bouquet, including those of Catherine, Meghan, Princess Diana, Princess Eugenie, and Zara Tindall, symbolizing love and hope.
Kate Middleton arriving at her wedding with a bouquet
Alt text: Kate Middleton arriving at her wedding with a bouquet containing a sprig of myrtle.
8. Why Do Royals Pose on Hospital Steps After a Birth?
Posing on the steps of the hospital after the birth of a royal baby has become an unspoken tradition. Princess Anne started this by posing on the steps of the Lindo Wing at St. Mary’s Hospital after Zara Tindall’s birth. Princess Diana and Charles replicated this with Prince William and Prince Harry, and the Prince and Princess of Wales have continued the practice. This tradition allows the public to share in the joy and provides the royals with some private time afterward.
Princess Anne leaving St Mary's Hospital after the birth of her child
Alt text: Princess Anne leaving St Mary’s Hospital, starting the tradition of posing on hospital steps after a royal birth.
9. What Happens at the Royal Family’s Black-Tie Dinner on Christmas Eve?
The royal family gathers at the Sandringham Estate every year for Christmas, a celebration marked by a formal Christmas Eve dinner. This adults-only black-tie dinner begins with martinis at Sandringham House, with royals dressing in their finest clothing, from black-tie suits to ball gowns and tiaras. The evening includes a four-course dinner before everyone retires to bed, ready for Christmas Day celebrations.
King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Kate Middleton at a state banquet
Alt text: King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Kate Middleton at a state banquet, reflecting the formality of royal dinners.
10. Why Do Royals Exchange Gifts on Christmas Eve?
Unlike many families who exchange gifts on Christmas Day, the royal family traditionally opens presents on Christmas Eve. The royal family exchanges joke or useful gifts, laying them out on a trestle table before opening them. This tradition occurs during the official Sandringham Christmas celebration, while individual families may also exchange gifts on Christmas Day when away from the monarch’s residence.
Members of the Royal Family at Christmas
Alt text: Members of the Royal Family celebrating Christmas, with a focus on the tradition of gift exchange.
11. What Is the Significance of the Monarch’s Annual Speech?
The monarch’s annual Christmas speech became a tradition in 1932 when King George V addressed his people on December 25. The speech, broadcast on the BBC and later on other channels, conveys a message of reflection and hope. Queen Elizabeth gave her first Christmas message in 1952, and in 2022, King Charles delivered his first speech from Windsor Castle, continuing this long-standing tradition.
King Charles during his Christmas broadcast
Alt text: King Charles during his Christmas broadcast, continuing the monarch’s annual tradition.
12. Why Do Royals Do Walkabouts on Engagements?
Queen Elizabeth II initiated the tradition of the royal ‘walkabout’ in 1970 during a tour of Australia and New Zealand. Wanting to meet the crowds, she began walking among them and chatting, setting a precedent for future royal engagements. The way it is conducted varies, with some royals like King Charles, Prince William, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, shaking hands, while others like Prince Edward and Princess Anne refrain.
Prince Charles meeting members of the public during a walkabout
Alt text: Prince Charles engaging in a walkabout, meeting and greeting members of the public.
13. Why Is Attending Royal Ascot a Tradition?
Attending the Royal Ascot horse racing event is a family tradition due to the late Queen’s love of horse racing. Various family members attend the event, traditionally traveling in carriages from Windsor Castle through the estate to the grounds of Royal Ascot. Since the Queen’s passing, King Charles has upheld this tradition, continuing the royal presence at this prestigious event.
Queen Elizabeth II presenting a prize at Royal Ascot
Alt text: Queen Elizabeth II presenting a prize at Royal Ascot, underscoring the royal family’s connection to the event.
14. What Happens at the Summer Garden Parties?
The monarch hosts at least three garden parties at Buckingham Palace and one at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Scotland each year. These parties, which historically welcomed debutantes, now honor those who have made significant contributions to their community. Attended by regular members of the public, these garden parties often feature the monarch and other royal family members.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh at a garden party at Buckingham Palace
Alt text: Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh at a garden party, highlighting the royal family’s engagement with the community.
15. Why Is Attending Easter Sunday Service at Windsor Castle a Tradition?
The royal family traditionally attends the Easter Sunday service at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. From Duchess Sophie to King Charles, Mike and Zara Tindall, and Princess Beatrice, the family attends the service and then returns to Windsor Castle for a traditional lamb lunch. This annual tradition highlights the family’s religious observance and unity.
The Prince and Princess of Wales arriving at Easter Sunday service with their family
Alt text: The Prince and Princess of Wales with their family at Easter Sunday service, emphasizing the importance of religious traditions.
16. Why Are Wedding Invitations Issued by the Monarch?
Wedding invitations within the royal family are typically issued in the name of the monarch. This means the reigning King or Queen officially invites guests to the royal wedding, rather than the couple themselves. For instance, Queen Elizabeth II sent out invitations to Prince William and Catherine Middleton’s wedding. Similarly, the reigning monarch and the Prince of Wales traditionally act as hosts for wedding receptions.
A wedding invitation from the monarch
Alt text: A royal wedding invitation, showcasing the tradition of the monarch issuing invites.
17. Why Is Going to Church on Christmas Day a Tradition?
Attending church on December 25 is a tradition for the royal family, with almost all members visiting the 11 am service. Usually spending Christmas on the Sandringham Estate, the family heads to the local St Mary Magdalene Church, near Sandringham House. Given the monarch’s title as Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England, this is an important tradition. Royal fans often greet the family on their walk to the church.
King Charles and the Royal Family attending Christmas Morning Service
Alt text: King Charles and the Royal Family attending Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church.
18. Why Were Fathers Traditionally Not Present for Royal Births?
The tradition of royal fathers not being present at the birth of their children changed with Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth. Though Prince Philip was not present at the births of Charles, Princess Anne, and Prince Andrew, he and the Queen decided he would attend the birth of their youngest son, Prince Edward. Historically, childbirth was considered a private event for women only, making male presence unseemly.
Princess Elizabeth with Prince Philip and their baby son Prince Charles
Alt text: Princess Elizabeth with Prince Philip and their baby son Prince Charles, reflecting historical traditions around royal births.
19. Why Do Royal Babies Have Multiple Godparents?
Royal family members traditionally have multiple godparents. Prince George, for example, has seven, while Princess Charlotte has five, and Prince Louis and Prince William have six. This tradition stems from the idea that royal children require guidance from trusted friends and family members, providing them with more support throughout their complex lives.
Kate Middleton and Prince William with their children after Prince Louis' christening
Alt text: Kate Middleton and Prince William with their children after Prince Louis’ christening, highlighting the tradition of multiple godparents.
20. Why Do Royals Always Fly with a Black Outfit?
Royal family members always travel with a black outfit to ensure they can dress appropriately in case of a family member’s death. This protocol is crucial, as pictures are almost inevitable if a royal death occurs while they are traveling. Having a black outfit readily available ensures the royals can immediately display proper mourning attire.
Kate Middleton, Prince William, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle
Alt text: Kate Middleton, Prince William, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle, emphasizing the importance of being prepared with appropriate attire.
21. Why Is a Christmas Day Game of Charades a Tradition?
Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed an annual game of charades every Christmas Day. Gathering the family together on the evening of December 25, she led rounds of this festive guessing game while at Sandringham. It is uncertain whether the royals have maintained this tradition since her death in 2022, but the family likely continues to honor one of her beloved Christmas pastimes.
Queen Elizabeth II attending an event
Alt text: Queen Elizabeth II at an event, reflecting her love for family traditions like charades.
22. Why Do Royals Do a Balcony Wave?
Whenever the royal family attends a significant event in London, they head to the balcony at Buckingham Palace to wave to the public. This tradition occurs at the annual Trooping the Colour, King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Coronation day, and Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The balcony wave connects the royals with their adoring public.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla waving from the Buckingham Palace balcony
Alt text: King Charles III and Queen Camilla waving from the Buckingham Palace balcony, a symbol of royal connection with the public.
23. What Is the Swan ‘Upping’ Tradition?
The annual swan ‘upping’ involves The King’s Swan Marker traveling the River Thames to check the health of the swans. Led by the King’s Swan Marker, the team ensures no swans are injured or unwell. The King technically owns all unclaimed swans in open water, while livery companies own a portion on the Thames. Overseen by the King’s Swan Marker on the monarch’s behalf, the ritual promotes swan conservation.
A swan being captured during the annual Swan Upping on the River Thames
Alt text: A swan being captured during Swan Upping, illustrating the royal tradition of swan conservation.
24. Why Have Royal Women Traditionally Had Ladies-in-Waiting?
Royal women have traditionally had a lady-in-waiting to assist with personal tasks. Acting as a personal assistant, a lady-in-waiting historically wrote on the royal’s behalf, supervised servants, and managed the woman’s rooms and wardrobe. While Queen Elizabeth II employed ladies-in-waiting traditionally, Queen Camilla has opted for ‘Queen’s Companions’ who provide company and help at events but no longer perform administrative tasks.
Queen Elizabeth II with a lady-in-waiting
Alt text: Queen Elizabeth II with a lady-in-waiting, reflecting the traditional role of assisting royal women.
25. Why Is There a Stone Underneath the Coronation Chair?
Royal coronations feature traditions passed down for centuries. During King Charles III’s coronation, the Stone of Scone was placed under his coronation chair in Westminster Abbey. Used since the 13th century and taken by King Edward I, the stone is now Crown property. It symbolizes historic significance and sits under the coronation chair for every coronation ceremony.
King Charles III after being crowned with St Edward's Crown
Alt text: King Charles III after being crowned, emphasizing the historical significance of the Stone of Scone.
26. Why Does the Monarch Take a ‘Hostage’ During the Opening of Parliament?
During the annual State Opening of Parliament, the monarch symbolically takes a ‘hostage’ to guarantee their safe return from Parliament to Buckingham Palace. This tradition dates back to the 1600s when the relationship between government and monarchy was tense. Originating during Charles I’s reign, a Parliamentary MP is now taken ‘hostage’ at Buckingham Palace until the King or Queen returns safely, though they are free to do as they wish.
Queen Elizabeth II reading the Queen's Speech at the State Opening of Parliament
Alt text: Queen Elizabeth II at the State Opening of Parliament, reflecting the tradition of taking a symbolic hostage.
27. Why Do Royals Take a New Name After Marriage?
When a royal marries, they and their spouse are often given new titles. Male members of the royal family receive a new peerage title upon marriage. For example, Prince William became the Duke of Cambridge after marrying Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle became the Duke and Duchess of Sussex after their wedding.
Prince William and Kate Middleton after their wedding
Alt text: Prince William and Kate Middleton after their wedding, highlighting the tradition of receiving new titles.
28. Why Do Women Wear Hats at Formal Events?
Royal women traditionally wear hats to formal occasions such as Royal Ascot, Trooping the Colour, and royal weddings. In the 1950s, it was deemed ‘improper’ for royal women to show too much hair at formal events. Queen Elizabeth maintained this tradition, and her successors have followed suit, wearing hats or fascinators to important events.
Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice arriving for the Lord Mayor's Show
Alt text: Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice wearing hats at a formal event, illustrating the tradition of royal women wearing hats.
29. Why Is Joining the Military a Royal Tradition?
Many royal family members have been involved in the military, considered a rite of passage for the monarch and their descendants. King Charles is the ceremonial Head of the Armed Forces, as was Queen Elizabeth II. It is an important way for royals to understand the protocols and demands on the military in defense of the United Kingdom.
Prince Harry in military uniform
Alt text: Prince Harry in military uniform, reflecting the royal tradition of military service.
30. Why Do Royal Family Members Walk Behind the Monarch?
During official events, royal family members traditionally walk behind the monarch to openly display the hierarchy. The monarch is at the head of the family, with members behind them in order of proximity to the throne. Queen Elizabeth II regularly walked ahead of Prince Philip, and Prince William and his family often walk behind King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William attending an event together
Alt text: Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William walking together, illustrating the tradition of walking behind the monarch.
31. What Happens During a Royal Mourning Period?
Following the death of a King or Queen, a Royal Mourning period is observed, pausing the monarchy’s usual activities for around seven days. King Charles officially requested this period after Queen Elizabeth’s death in September 2022. During this time, the royal family, Royal Household staff, and Representatives of the Royal Household cease any official work unrelated to Her Majesty’s passing.
Members of the Royal Family holding a vigil in honour of Queen Elizabeth II
Alt text: Members of the Royal Family holding a vigil, reflecting the solemnity of a royal mourning period.
32. Why Does the Monarch Pick a Tiara for Royal Brides?
Royal brides are traditionally loaned a tiara from the Royal Collection to wear on their wedding day, often selected with the monarch. Meghan Markle wore Queen Mary’s tiara from 1932, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, wore the Cartier Halo tiara. Tiaras are typically worn by royal women only after marriage, with Meghan, Catherine, Princess Diana, Duchess Sophie, and Sarah Ferguson not permitted to wear one before their weddings.
Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson on their wedding day
Alt text: Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson on their wedding day, highlighting the tradition of wearing a tiara loaned by the monarch.
Understanding these royal family traditions provides a fascinating look into the history, protocols, and values that shape the lives of the British monarchy. For more insights into family life and traditions, visit hudsonfamily.net, where you can explore articles, stories, and resources to enrich your understanding of family dynamics and cultural heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Royal Family Traditions
1. What is the most bizarre royal tradition?
One of the most unusual royal traditions is the monarch symbolically taking a ‘hostage’ during the annual State Opening of Parliament to guarantee their safe return to Buckingham Palace.
2. Why do royal brides wear white?
The tradition of royal brides wearing white symbolizes purity and has been a custom since Queen Victoria wore a white dress at her wedding in 1840.
3. What happens at Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour is an annual event celebrating the monarch’s official birthday, featuring a military parade, royal salute, and a gathering on the Buckingham Palace balcony to watch a Royal Air Force fly-past.
4. Why do royals exchange gag gifts at Christmas?
Royals exchange gag gifts to show off their sense of humor and in line with their German heritage, adding a lighthearted touch to their Christmas celebrations.
5. What is the significance of Welsh gold in royal wedding rings?
Using Welsh gold in royal wedding rings symbolizes the family’s connection to Welsh heritage and represents lasting commitment.
6. Why do royal family members travel with a black outfit?
Royal family members travel with a black outfit to ensure they can dress appropriately in case of a family member’s death while they are away.
7. How many godparents do royal children typically have?
Royal children typically have multiple godparents to provide guidance and support throughout their lives. For example, Prince George has seven godparents.
8. What is swan upping and why is it a royal tradition?
Swan upping is an annual census of the swan population on the River Thames, overseen by The King’s Swan Marker, and it is a royal tradition because the monarch technically owns all unclaimed swans in open water.
9. Why do women in the royal family wear hats at formal events?
Women in the royal family wear hats at formal events because, in the 1950s, it was considered improper for royal women to show too much hair at formal events.
10. What is the purpose of the monarch’s annual Christmas speech?
The monarch’s annual Christmas speech is a tradition that began in 1932 to convey a message of reflection, hope, and unity to the people.
