Her Royal Highness has organised her annual Yuletide celebration at Westminster Abbey, with guests including dignitaries, stars, and everyday helpers who have supported their local areas.
The large audience will listen to a selection of festive songs, musical performances, and spoken word pieces from actors such as Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.
Centred Around Compassion and Love
The focus of the concert, held in the candle-lit Abbey on the afternoon, is compassion and demonstrating care for others.
In the audience are Anna and Jonathan Cordiner, whose young girl was lost to a brain tumour, and who founded an organisation, a charity called Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to support families who have a youngster facing a life-limiting condition.
"The dedication, empathy, and kindness you show, often quietly and unspoken, and without any thought of thanks or praise, make an profound impact to the well-being of people," wrote Catherine in a letter ahead of the carol service.
A Gradual Return
The Princess of Wales is continuing her own gradual return to the public eye subsequent to her illness and medical care, last month delivering her first public speech for two years, in which she talked about recognising the "quiet, often invisible work of caring".
Performance and Potential
Guests arriving at the Abbey will be entertained by talented youth performers supported by the Future Talent organisation, established in part by the Duchess of Kent to broaden opportunities for instrumental training.
An 18-year-old named Carys Wood, who plays the trumpet and is from southwest Wales, has been helped by the charity, with funding assisting with musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "amazing" to be performing at the concert.
"Pursuing music is often costly," Carys said. She is now studying at the Royal Academy of Music, and added that "all people deserve the chance" to hone their artistic talents.
Generations Gathering
Eliza, Carys's sister who is 11, who is a euphonium player, will be present at the Abbey. "I never thought I'd be able to play there in front of so many distinguished guests," she said.
Among the guests will be representatives of different generations.
That will encompass nine-year-old Saphia Turner, recipient of a youth community award, who sells artwork and carries out sponsored challenges to raise money for food banks.
Festive Decor and Performances
The Abbey has been decorated with custom-created holiday decorations, with well-known chef Mary Berry and flower expert Simon Lycett assisting in their creation.
The musical lineup includes recording artist Katie Melua, the Westminster Abbey choristers and a nautical singing ensemble, the Fisherman's Friends, who said the invitation to sing was "the perfect culmination."
The festive event titled 'Together at Christmas' will be broadcast on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.
