Queen Elizabeth is all set to welcome Christmas this year. In a rare opportunity, the monarh recently unveiled photos of how Windsor Castle was decorated for the festive season.
The Royal Collection Trust shared some of online photos and videos of Queen Elizabeth's Christmas wonderland in Windsor Castle. At the center of the attraction is the 20ft Nordmann Fir Christmas tree that stands at St. George's Hall.
Apparently, this tree came from the Windsor Great Park and required long ladders to be decorated with gold and red baubles, mirrored ornaments and iridescent glass. The colors also matched the windows of the hall, with its long red and gold drapery. It apparently took more than half a day to decorate this particular area.
A little further to Windsor Castle is the Crimson Drawing Room, which also has its own Christmas tree. Though smaller than the St. George Hall's tree, this one is still 15ft tall with crimson bows, baubles and stars to also match the color scheme of the room.
Next, the State Dining Room's gold, silver and green color schemes are also reflective of the season. Set out at the large table are some of the towering centerpieces, such as the candelabras and candlestick, that the royals use for special occasions. However, these gorgeous displays will not be used the royal family this year as they will spend their actual Christmas celebrations in Sandringham.
Windsor Castle, instead, will be open to the public so that visitors can see this splendid Christmas wonderland. Visitors may come to the castle beginning Nov. 30, 2019 until Jan. 5, 2020.
Meanwhile, the royal family will be exchanging gifts on Christmas eve at Queen Elizabeth's Norfolk estate. Unlike regular gift-giving traditions, however, the royal families exchange gag presents that usually elicit laughter, even from Queen Elizabeth.
According to reports, Prince Harry once gifted his grandmother with a cap that had the words "Ain't Life a B***h" on it. One the other hand, Prince Harry received a Grow Your Own Girlfriend kit from his brother and sister-in-law, Prince William and Kate, a few Christmases ago before he met his wife, Meghan Markle.
In the morning of Christmas, the family hears mass together at St. Mary Magdalene, per traditions. Then, they head to back to the Queen's house for Christmas lunch.
This year, however, Prince Harry and Meghan won't be in Sandringham with the royals and it's also speculated that Prince Andrew could be skipping the family party. However, the palace has not yet confirmed who else will not be making it to the Queen's annual Christmas celebration.
