Overview
- Kensington Palace set the date for Friday, December 5, with a 1,600-strong congregation at Westminster Abbey nominated by lord-lieutenants and royal-linked charities.
- This year’s theme, “love in all its forms,” centers on recognizing people who strengthen families, friendships and communities through acts of connection.
- Readings and performances will feature Kate Winslet, Hannah Waddingham, Bastille’s Dan Smith and Chiwetel Ejiofor alongside the Westminster Abbey choir.
- Young performers from Future Talent will greet arrivals in homage to the late Duchess of Kent, while Jamie Butterworth designs an exterior natural display and the Royal Horticultural Society donates wreaths inside.
- ITV1 and ITVX will broadcast the service on Christmas Eve with a Christmas Day repeat, and 15 companion community carol services will take place across the UK hosted by local lord-lieutenants and supported by The Royal Foundation.