Meghan Markle Continues Royal-Favorite Christmas Tradition in California

Meghan Markle is bringing a cherished British Christmas custom to her family in her latest Netflix release. The Duchess of Sussex's holiday special, With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, premiered on Wednesday, December 3, offering an hour of festive fun and holiday tips alongside a group of celebrity friends.

In one segment, Meghan, 44, teams up with restaurateur Will Guidara, co-founder of the NoMad restaurant chain. The two gather in the craft room of Meghans Montecito, California home to assemble Christmas crackers, a traditional British holiday treat. These paper-wrapped tubes are tied at both ends and contain a small prize or sweet treat. When pulled, the friction strip inside creates a loud snap, often revealing a paper crown as well.

Living in the U.K., its just such a big part of the culture, Meghan tells Guidara. People usually cross their arms and pull at the same time. Its really connected and sweet. Each cracker often contains a tiny joke or riddle along with something sweet.

Meghan first experienced royal family Christmases at Sandringham in 2017 after her engagement to Prince Harry, and again in 2018 during the early years of their marriage. The couple spent the 2019 holidays in Canada before stepping back from royal duties in 2020. Christmas crackers have been a long-standing tradition within the royal household, with the British company Tom Smith credited with inventing them in 1847. Since 1906, the brand has held a royal warrant to supply crackers and wrapping paper, and the late Queen Elizabeth reportedly enjoyed reading the jokes aloud during holiday celebrations.

For her homemade crackers, Meghan personalized each one. Harrys included a love note, chocolate, and a tiny hat, while Archies featured two of his favorite things: hamburgers and the color red. Lilibets cracker reflected her current interests, including a lavender rollerball. Meghan and Guidara even tested a cracker together, with Guidara pulling the winning half containing confetti and small gifts.

The special also includes appearances by tennis star Naomi Osaka, chef and Top Chef judge Tom Colicchio, Meghans close friend Kelly McKee Zajfen, and her longtime friend and author-producer Lindsay Roth. I love the holiday season, Meghan says. Its about connecting with loved ones, embracing traditions, and creating new ones.

In addition to making crackers, Meghan visits a Christmas tree farm, prepares seasonal treats for friends, and demonstrates her DIY gift-wrapping skills. Prince Harry makes a brief appearance, sharing a kiss with Meghan while helping himself to some treats in the kitchen. The special coincides with the launch of Meghans lifestyle brand, As Ever, which features sparkling wines, hand-poured candles, artisanal fruit spreads, and California honey, several of which are highlighted in the holiday spread shown in the special.

With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration is currently streaming on Netflix.

Author: Sophia Brooks