For Queen Camilla, the holiday season truly begins not with grand state events or public appearances, but with a cherished, intimate tradition that has warmed hearts for two decades. On December 11, 2025, Her Majesty welcomed a group of children and their families from two patronages close to her heart—Helen & Douglas House and Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity—to Clarence House for a special Christmas tea party and tree decorating ceremony. This annual event, now in its remarkable 20th year, transformed the elegant London residence into a haven of laughter, crafts, and seasonal magic, complete with a visit from Father Christmas and even a ride on Queen Victoria’s historic state sleigh.
The day was filled with joyful activities designed to create lasting memories for the young guests, many facing serious or life-limiting illnesses. Around ten children, accompanied by parents, siblings, and nurses, arrived to find Clarence House festively prepared: tables laden with treats like gingerbread biscuits, candy canes, and chocolate Santas, and a magnificent Christmas tree awaiting adornment in the grand library. Queen Camilla, radiant in a festive ensemble, greeted each family personally, her warmth setting the tone for an afternoon of unhurried delight.
The tree decorating itself has become a beloved ritual. The children carefully selected handmade ornaments and baubles, hanging them with excitement under Camilla’s encouraging guidance. In a playful twist that has delighted guests over the years, her equerries—Major Rob Treasure (newly appointed) and the outgoing Major Ollie Plunkett—used their ceremonial swords to reach the higher branches, placing decorations chosen by the youngsters with precision and flair. Laughter echoed through the halls as the tree gradually sparkled to life, symbolizing hope and togetherness.
But the surprises didn’t end there. Father Christmas made a grand entrance, distributing gifts and teddy bears to the wide-eyed children. He even presented Camilla with squeaky toys for her beloved rescue dogs, Moley and Bluebell, joking that they were “from Mrs. Claus, as there’s nothing you can buy for the Queen!” Outside in the gardens, two real reindeer—Blitzen and Dancer—awaited, allowing the children to pet their soft antlers and pose for photos. The highlight for many was a ride on the restored State Sleigh, originally commissioned by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in the 1840s. Camilla joined the youngsters on the plush red velvet seats, waving merrily as Santa steered the historic vehicle, creating scenes straight out of a holiday fairy tale.
A festive lunch followed: sausages, mashed potatoes, and peas arranged in smiley faces on the plates, served with gravy poured by Camilla herself as she circulated among the tables. The menu catered to young palates while fostering a sense of normalcy and fun. Speeches added emotional depth—David Whittingham, chief executive of Helen & Douglas House, described the event as a “celebration of community, kindness, and hope,” expressing gratitude for Camilla’s 20 years of hosting. In response, the Queen shared her annual sentiment: “I say this every year—to me, it’s the start of Christmas. I haven’t really got my head around it until I come here and realize it’s about to happen.”
This tradition traces its roots to 2005, when Camilla—then Duchess of Cornwall—first invited children from these charities to Clarence House. Helen & Douglas House, the world’s first children’s hospice opened in 1982, provides respite, end-of-life care, and support for families in Oxfordshire and beyond; Camilla became its patron in 2007. Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, of which she has been patron since 2017, funds specialist nurses caring for over 40,000 seriously ill children across the UK. Over the years, the event has grown in personal significance for Camilla, who has spoken of how the children’s resilience and joy inspire her, marking the true beginning of her festive season.
The 2025 gathering felt especially poignant, coming after a year of royal health challenges and transitions. Camilla’s dedication to continuing the tradition uninterrupted—now for the third time as Queen—underscores her commitment to these causes. The children, some in wheelchairs, brought handmade gifts and drawings, exchanging hugs and stories with their royal host. Moments of pure connection stood out: Camilla kneeling to chat at eye level, helping place ornaments, or sharing laughs during the sleigh rides.
Public response has been overwhelmingly affectionate. Photos and videos released by the palace captured the day’s magic, spreading joy across social media and news outlets. Fans hailed it as “the most heartwarming royal tradition,” praising Camilla’s genuine engagement and the event’s focus on those often overlooked during the holidays. “This is what Christmas is about—kindness and making memories,” one admirer wrote. Charities expressed profound thanks, noting how the day provides families with cherished experiences and highlights their vital work.
In an age of elaborate celebrations, Queen Camilla’s annual party stands out for its simplicity and sincerity. No lavish spectacle, just crafts, laughter, a shared meal, and the wonder of Santa’s visit—all in the cozy elegance of Clarence House. It’s a reminder that the holiday spirit thrives in small, meaningful gestures, especially for those facing extraordinary challenges.
As the tree at Clarence House now twinkles with ornaments placed by tiny hands, it symbolizes more than decoration—it’s a beacon of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of compassion. For Queen Camilla and her young guests, this tradition isn’t just the start of Christmas; it’s the heart of it.
