The annual carol service hosted by the Princess of Wales has firmly established itself as a highlight of the royal festive calendar. This year's event, held on December 5 at Westminster Abbey, offered a particularly touching moment that captivated viewers during its Christmas Eve broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX.
A Musical Moment for Mother and Daughter
The broadcast held a special surprise for audiences. In a pre-recorded segment filmed the previous week in the Inner Hall at Windsor Castle, Catherine, Princess of Wales, performed a piano duet with her ten-year-old daughter, Princess Charlotte. The pair delivered a moving rendition of 'Holm Sound' by Scottish composer Erland Cooper, whose work is inspired by nature and human connection.
The performance was interspersed with a voiceover of Kate reading the letter given to service attendees and footage of guests arriving. Royal admirers were quick to praise the 'absolutely beautiful' performance on social media, with many noting how the future queen looked immensely proud of her daughter.
A Royal Family Gathering
The musical interlude was the evening's standout moment, but the event marked a significant public appearance for the Wales family. It was the first time they had been seen together publicly since Trooping the Colour in June. Prince William attended with their three children: Prince George, 12, Prince Louis, seven, and Princess Charlotte.
William gave a reading during the service, and the children participated by adding links to a red paper chain on a Christmas tree at the front of the Abbey. Kate warmly greeted her family upon their arrival, placing her hands on the boys' shoulders.
A Who's Who of Royals and Personalities
The congregation was a mix of senior working royals, extended family, and celebrities. Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Zara Tindall with her husband Mike were among the notable attendees from the core family.
The wider royal family was well-represented, including the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Lady Sarah Chatto, and Prince Michael of Kent, who attended in a wheelchair. His granddaughter, Maud Windsor – Princess Eugenie's rarely seen goddaughter – was also present.
Kate's own family, the Middletons, showed their support from the congregation. The event also featured a star-studded lineup of performers and readers, including actors Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor, singers Katie Melua and Griff, and chef Dame Mary Berry. Actor Eugene Levy, who recently featured Prince William in his travel series, was among the famous faces in attendance.
Now in its fifth year, the 'Together at Christmas' service aimed to celebrate community spirit and the power of connection during the festive season, continuing the Princess of Wales's tradition of highlighting causes close to her heart.
