After missing the state banquet in honor of the Emir of Qatar, the Princess of Wales vindicated herself with the public by attending the carol concert at Westminster Abbey.
The event, which is being held for the fourth consecutive year, has special significance this year due to Kate Middleton’s battle with cancer.
Titled “Together at Christmas,” the carol concert comes at a significant time, as it follows a period in which Kate underwent chemotherapy and major abdominal surgery. Despite everything, she decided not to cancel the event, which is very dear to her heart.
Kate Middleton at Christmas Carol Service
Last December 6, Princess Kate arrived at the imposing Westminster Abbey in London. First, she showed up alone to interact with volunteers before joining her family, who usually show up just before the event begins.
The Princess of Wales dazzled in a long red coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, adorned with a large black bow at the collar. She completed her look with pearl earrings and black boots.
Her husband, Prince William, had the honor of performing a reading during the first lesson.
Also in attendance were Prince George, 11; Princess Charlotte, 9; and Prince Louis, 6. This was the first time the three siblings had performed together since the Trooping the Colour ceremony in June.
Attendees enjoyed diverse performances by young talent and a jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting music education among young people.
The evening looked to be an emotional one, with caroling, moving readings, ballet, and performances by artists such as Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, and Paloma Faith.
In addition, pianist Rosey Chan composed a special piece for the occasion, and soloists from the Royal Ballet, along with students from the Royal Ballet School, performed a piece created especially for the event.
Each of the 1,600 guests received a touching letter from Princess Kate, reflecting on the transformative power of love.
In her message, she shared that the holiday season is one of her favorite times of the year, describing it as a time “of celebration and joy.”
She added, “It also gives us the opportunity to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all. It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness – so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about.”