LONDON — King Charles III once gifted his staff Christmas puddings and hand-signed cards, offering a glimpse into the royal holiday traditions. Former royal staffer revealed details about annual parties at St. James’ Palace and the thoughtful gifts distributed after the festivities.
Royal Holiday Cheer: Inside the King’s Staff Parties
A former staff member shared insights into the lavish celebrations and personal touches extended to those working for the King.
- Staff from various royal residences attended the parties at St. James’ Palace.
- Attendees enjoyed lavish dinners, entertainment, and a chance to mingle.
- King Charles III personally signed Christmas cards for all staff members.
- Gifts, often decorated with the Prince of Wales’ feathers, were distributed after the event.
The annual staff parties, held at St. James’ Palace, were a highlight for those working within the royal households. “When you walked up the stairs into one of the big rooms, you’d be greeted by people serving,” a former staff member, known as Stooks, recalled. “You’d be offered something to drink on arrival and then all of the staff would mingle together.”
The atmosphere was described as convivial, with staff members connecting with colleagues from different areas of the royal estates. “You might see people that you know from the office or other areas of Highgrove, and you’d all go and join in and chat to everybody,” Stooks said.
Entertainment was a key component of the celebrations, with magicians performing close-up tricks and well-known comedians taking the stage. “There would be a magician and they would go around doing card tricks with everyone or pretending to take someone’s watch,” Stooks explained. Dinner itself was a formal affair, complete with elaborate table settings and Christmas crackers adorned with the Prince of Wales’ feathers.
Comedians like Omid Djalili and singer Alfie Boe were among the performers who graced the royal parties with their talents. Beyond the entertainment, King Charles III demonstrated a personal touch by distributing gifts to his staff. These gifts ranged from practical items like salt, pepper, and tea sets—often decorated with the Prince of Wales’ feathers—to festive treats like Christmas puddings, given for the first few years of Stooks’ employment.
Perhaps the most cherished gesture was the King’s practice of sending hand-signed Christmas cards to each staff member, alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort. The gifts were distributed the day after the party at Highgrove.
What kind of gifts did King Charles III give his staff? Gifts included items like salt, pepper cruets, tea cups, water glasses, trays, and Christmas puddings, many featuring the Prince of Wales’ feathers.
