King Philippe and Queen Mathilde have hosted a special reception celebrating people from across Belgian society in the run up to Christmas.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe King and Queen of the Belgians were joined by three of their four children at the event which took place at the Royal Palace in Brussels.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe family usually host a special concert to mark the start of the festive season but restoration work at the palace means that has had to be put on hold for 2023.
Embed from Getty ImagesInstead, the royal family welcomed 100 Belgians to the palace for a reception.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe heir to the throne, Princess Elisabeth, was at her parents’ side, having returned from her studies at Oxford in recent weeks.
Embed from Getty ImagesKing Philippe and Queen Mathilde’s second son, Prince Emmanuel, who has just turned 18, was also present as was their youngest child, Princess Eleonore, 15. Their elder son, Prince Gabriel, 20, wasn’t there – he is undergoing military training at the moment.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe whole family will spend the festive season together. King Philippe will make his annual speech on Christmas Eve.
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