Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are ushering in the holiday season with a heartfelt greeting that showcases their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. On December 16, 2024, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed their annual holiday card, featuring a delightful new photograph of their kids, now aged 5 and 3. This year’s card is particularly special, as it marks one of the first public images of the children in years.
The holiday card is a multi-photo greeting that captures the essence of family joy. In one of the standout images, Archie and Lilibet can be seen running towards their parents, their backs turned to the camera, a candid moment that exudes excitement and innocence. The family’s three dogs also make an appearance in the festive montage, adding to the warmth of the scene.
Meghan is seen smiling at Archie, while Harry is captured in a tender moment, squatting down to greet Lilibet, who has inherited her brother’s striking red hair. The card’s message, set against a deep green backdrop, reads: “On behalf of the office of Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Archewell Productions and Archewell Foundation, we wish you a very happy holiday season and a joyful new year.” This sentiment reflects the couple’s commitment to spreading joy and goodwill during the festive period.
This year’s card features a total of six images, including snapshots from the couple’s travels to Nigeria and Colombia throughout the year. These glimpses into their life abroad highlight the couple’s engagement with different cultures and communities, further emphasizing their philanthropic endeavors.
The last time the public saw Archie and Lilibet was during the couple’s docuseries, “Harry & Meghan,” which premiered on Netflix in December 2022. The family has been relatively private about their children’s lives, a decision rooted in a desire to protect their privacy and safety. A close friend of Prince Harry shared insights into his perspective on this matter, stating that the Duke is keen to shield his children from the public eye, not out of a wish to conceal them, but to ensure their well-being.
“Harry has been reluctant to show his children publicly,” the friend explained. “He wants them to lead as normal a life as possible without the fear of kidnapping or harm.” This protective instinct is further influenced by Harry’s own experiences, particularly the tragic loss of his mother, Princess Diana. The friend added, “As a dad and husband, Harry is determined to ensure that history doesn’t repeat itself.”
The couple’s commitment to philanthropy is evident in their holiday card, which continues the tradition of involving The Archewell Foundation in their seasonal greetings. Established in 2020, Archewell serves as a platform for their charitable work and has become a significant part of their public persona. For the past three years, the Duke and Duchess have included the foundation in their holiday messaging, reinforcing their dedication to making a positive impact.
The Archewell Foundation operates under the motto “Show Up, Do Good,” and has been involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting mental health, gender equality, and community support. This year’s holiday card serves as a reminder of their ongoing commitment to these values, while also allowing a glimpse into their family life during a time of celebration.
As the holiday season approaches, Meghan and Harry’s card not only shares their family’s joy but also highlights their desire to maintain a balance between public life and personal privacy. With the festive greetings, they continue to navigate the complexities of royal life while prioritizing the safety and happiness of their children.
