Princess Catherine's Together at Christmas: A Celebration of Kindness and Community
This evening, Princess Catherine will host the fifth Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, focusing on acts of kindness and community. The service will be broadcast on ITV and ITVX on Christmas Eve. The theme of this year's event is love expressed through everyday compassion in various relationships and interactions. The Princess has shared a Christmas message emphasizing the importance of generosity and gentleness, especially during challenging times. She acknowledges the struggles many have faced this year and offers a message of hope and peace.
The service will bring together 1,600 people, including volunteers, charity workers, and individuals who have made a positive impact in their communities. Members of the Royal Family and guests with inspiring stories of resilience and compassion will attend. The event will feature performances by young musicians from Future Talent and the Westminster Abbey Choir, as well as readings by special guests like Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor. The service will blend traditional carols with contemporary reflections on community and gratitude.
Leading up to the event, Princess Catherine's team released video footage of festive preparations, including wreath-making with Dame Mary Berry and other well-known figures. Giant wreaths created by RHS ambassadors, schoolchildren, and celebrity guests will adorn the Abbey, reflecting the Princess's desire to incorporate nature into the celebration. The Princess has spoken about the healing power of nature and its role in her recovery. Horticulturist Jamie Butterworth has designed an outdoor display to welcome guests and highlight the theme of nature.
The carol service will be filmed for a special programme airing on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve, with an additional showing on Christmas morning. Fifteen local community carol services will also take place across the UK, spreading the message of kindness and connection. The event aims to celebrate the spirit of Christmas through acts of love and compassion in everyday life.