Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will reportedly miss the Queen's pre-Christmas parties as they remain overseas with baby Archie.
The royal couple are not expected to return to the UK until the New Year, according to reports.
The family are currently thought to be enjoying a six-week escape at an unknown location with Meghan's mum Doria Ragland.
It is said they will not be joining the annual staff party at Buckingham Palace tonight or the royal Christmas feast on Wednesday.
Royal insiders insist the decision is not a 'snub' and say the Queen understands their absence, reports say.
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A source told Mail Online : "As the couple made clear a few weeks ago, they are taking some time away together as a family.
"This means that they will miss Christmas events."
The annual pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace is one of the rare events on the royal calender when the Queen's extended family comes together for a meal.
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The monarch is expected to leave for Sandringham shortly after the feast.
A spokesman for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex previously said: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are looking forward to extended family time towards the end of this month.
"Having spent the last two Christmases at Sandringham, their Royal Highnesses will spend the holiday this year, as a new family, with the Duchess' mother Doria.
“This decision is in line with precedent set previously by other members of the Royal Family, and has the support of Her Majesty The Queen.
“For security reasons, we will not be providing further details on their schedule at this time.”
The royal couple will launch their new charity when they return from their six-week trip overseas, reports say.
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