> At a Glance
> – Princess Kate turns 44 on January 9
> – Former royal butler predicts a private family dinner and silly presents
> – Prince William celebrated her strength during cancer treatment in last year’s message
> – Why it matters: The low-key celebration shows how the Wales family balances royal duty with normal family life amid health challenges
Princess Kate will mark her 44th birthday on January 9 with what royal insiders predict will be a modest family affair rather than a palace spectacle.
The Celebration Plan
Grant Harrold, who served the royal household, told News Of Los Angeles that the Wales family favors intimate dinners over grand parties. He expects Prince William and their three children-Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis-will gather for a private meal, possibly hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
“All royal birthdays are celebrated in some shape or form,” Harrold noted. “When I worked for the King, he would certainly have a private dinner.”
The menu will feature Kate’s favorite foods, and gifts lean toward the humorous. “The royals like to give silly presents,” Harrold added, predicting William might choose:
- A jewelry piece
- A home accessory for their new residence
- A weekend trip for the couple
A New Chapter at Adelaide Cottage
The family is settling into Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Great Park after moving in fall 2022. Kate recently told guests she’s creating mood boards to guide redecoration plans.
Harrold believes a practical gift might be followed up with jewelry or something quite personal, noting the couple values private getaways.
The King and Queen typically give joint gifts, sometimes selecting:
- A hand-me-down from Queen Elizabeth’s collection
- An item from Charles’s private collection
- A Royal Collection heirloom he’s permitted to pass on
Health Milestones
Both Kate and Charles are navigating cancer treatments. Kate announced remission in January 2025, while the King recently said his treatment schedule can be reduced in the new year.
William’s last birthday tribute praised her resilience:
> “To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. W.”
Key Takeaways
- Kate’s 44th will be a family-only event with gag gifts and favorite foods
- The Waleses are redecorating their Windsor home, making house-related presents likely
- King Charles may give a sentimental heirloom from royal collections
- Continued good health news remains the family’s top priority for 2025
With remission declared and treatment schedules easing, this birthday marks a hopeful restart for the Wales family.
