How The Royal Family Is Celebrating New Year's Eve

While the royal family has a lot of Christmas traditions that most members (aside from the royal children) follow every year, New Year's Eve is a little more laid back. While the clan usually gathers at Queen Elizabeth II's Sandringham Estate on Christmas, it seems that they often go their separate ways to ring in the new year.

This year, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle did not spend the Christmas holiday with the royal family. They will also be on their own for New Year's Eve, which they are celebrating abroad in Canada. According to the Mirror, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are spending the holiday at a waterfront mansion there. Markle's mother, Doria Ragland, is also joining the family to ring in the new year. "I wasn't surprised when I found out Harry and Meghan are staying there," a local told the tabloid of the lavish multi-million dollar home. "It's certainly fit for royalty."

Canada holds special significance for both Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. "The Duke of Sussex has been a frequent visitor to Canada over many years, and it was also home to The Duchess for seven years before she became a member of the Royal Family," said a spokesperson for the couple (via CNN).

Kate Middleton and Prince William reportedly prefer a laid-back New Year's Eve celebration as well. According to the International Business Times, the royal couple typically spend the holiday with Middleton's parents at the family home.

According to the official website of the royal family, it's traditional for the family to ring in the new year at Sandringham. While members of the extended family are starting their own holiday traditions, the queen will remain at the estate for the holiday. Express reported that Queen Elizabeth typically remains at Sandringham until February 6, the anniversary of her father's death.