Christmas is usually a time for relaxation, a time to take stock before welcoming a new year. But not for The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Reports suggest they are set to break with protocol, by making some major announcements over the festive period. And while the news doesn't concern the pitter patter of tiny feet, people are still getting excited.
Omid Scobie, a royal commentator, explained on a recent episode of ABC's Heirpod podcast that sources within Kensington Palace had briefed him to be prepared for an unprecedented release of news over Christmas.
'Expect royal announcements over the holidays,' Omid said. 'Which I think is a slight break away from tradition. There was a briefing at Kensington Palace just this week where they gave us a number of new announcements that will be coming out over the holiday period.'
Word of a surprise announcement may fuel excitement, but Omid explains that it is merely business.
'We will be hearing about a new initiative from Prince William and some other news as well,' says Omid. 'Next year is a big one for Kate. She is going to be really focused on her early years development. That is something she has been involved in for a long time now. It's a smart decision, it's a quiet time of the year. It is a great time to announce things.'
'It's a smart decision, it's a quiet time of the year. It is a great time to announce things.'
These plans set in motion a busy 2020 for the couple, as William and Kate prepare for the inevitable eventuality of being King and Queen. Royal commentator Ingrid Seward tells Grazia that Kate has taken to these duties with aplomb, and will only get busier as time goes on.
'Charles once said privately that he doesn't want William and Kate taking on a load of duties, and that he wanted them to go into it gently because they've got the rest of their lives', says Ingrid. 'And they did go into in gently. Now, they've picked up the pace, and they are doing things they really care about. They're in that lucky position: they don't have to do everything. Kate has really come into her own, but she's done it gradually, with the advice of her father-in-law.'
For now, though, the logistics of their Christmas remain unchanged. William and Kate will be at Sandringham this year, visiting the Queen for a day of traditional celebrations.
Any announcements will come at a difficult time for the royal family, as the shockwaves of Prince Andrew's disastrous Newsnight interview continue to be felt, while Harry and Meghan - Duke and Duchess of Sussex - continue their break from public life in Canada.
READ MORE: The Cambridges' Christmas Card Is Adorable
READ MORE: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge share new family photos