Kate's Christmas carol service to celebrate 'love in all its forms'

The Princess of Wales is set to host her fifth annual Christmas carol service. Kensington Palace has announced.

The Together At Christmas event will be held at Westminster Abbey on December 5.

The service will be broadcast as part of a special programme on STV and STV Player on Christmas Eve, with a repeat on Christmas Day.

The annual service will see Kate welcome members of the royal family, celebrity guests and “inspiring” individuals to “celebrate love in all its forms”, according to a statement from Kensington Palace.

“This year, the Service will bring people together to celebrate love in all its forms – whether it’s love within families, through friendships, across communities, or even through powerful moments of connection with strangers,” the statement said.

“In a world that can often feel fragmented and disconnected, love is the force that reconnects us all – spanning generations, communities, cultures, and faiths. As we approach the Christmas season, we are reminded of the power of togetherness. The evening will highlight the transformative power of investing in one another
with compassion, presence, and joy.”

This year’s programme will feature musical performances and readings by famous faces, including Hannah Waddingham, Dan Smith, Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

Westminster Abbey will be filled with 1,600 guests, including individuals who have been nominated by Lord-Lieutenants across the UK and charities associated with members of the royal family.

“This year, Her Royal Highness wanted to recognise and thank the many people around the country who are acting with love in their communities, contributing to a more cohesive and connected society,” the statement from Kensington Palace explained.

William and Kate with their children at the 2024 service. / Credit: PA

In addition to the service at Westminster Abbey, 15 community carol services will take place across the UK.

These will be taking place in:
• Armagh
• Berkshire
• Derbyshire
• Dumfries
• Dyfed
• East Riding
• Gwent
• Greater Manchester
• Isle of Wight
• Lanarkshire
• Nottinghamshire
• Renfrewshire & Ayrshire
• Suffolk
• Wiltshire
• Worcestershire

The carol service is now a firm fixture in the royal calendar, having first been launched by the princess in 2021 to celebrate those who had served their communities or overcome great personal challenges in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.