<p class="MsoNormal">The prank caller who used an offensive slur 'Let's go Brandon' on a Christmas call with Joe Biden has ensured that he meant no disrespect to the President.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"At the end of the day I have nothing against Mr Biden," the 35-year-old Jared Schmeck said. "But I am frustrated because I think he can be doing a better job. I mean no disrespect to him."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/caller-says-lets-go-brandon-to-biden-on-annual-christmas-calls-439763">Caller says 'Let's Go Brandon' to Biden on annual Christmas calls</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The phrase 'Let's Go Brandon' is used as a substitute for 'F**k Joe Biden' and became extremely popular among Donald Trump's supporters during US Election 2020.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">This phrase has become famous since the time when a television journalist had argued with a race car driver Brandon Brown that a crowd member was actually saying 'Let's go Brandon' when the person was shouting vulgar things.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The prank call took place during the annual call routine for the North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker, which tracks the progress of Santa’s reindeer-guided sleigh for millions of children around the country.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-2021-know-where-is-santa-claus-right-now-this-is-how-you-can-track-santa-claus-location-439770">Christmas 2021: Know where is Santa Claus right now? This is how you can track Santa Claus' location</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While talking to Schmeck, who had introduced himself as a dad, Biden had discussed with him what Schmeck’s four children wanted for Christmas and how his son shared the same name as Biden's son, Hunter.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">After a hearty conversation, Biden said "Lots of luck, dad", to which Schmeck laughed and suddenly replied, "Merry&nbsp;Christmas&nbsp;and Let’s go Brandon."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While the FLOTUS (First Lady of the United States), Jill Biden, winced a little, Joe Biden smiled and said "Let's go Brandon, I agree." He tried continuing the conversation by asking "By the way are you in&nbsp;Oregon? Where's your home?", but the call had already been disconnected.<o:p></o:p></p>


The prank caller who used an offensive slur 'Let's go Brandon' on a Christmas call with Joe Biden has ensured that he meant no disrespect to the President. "At the end of the day I have nothing against Mr Biden," the 35-year-old Jared Schmeck said.

The prank caller who used an offensive slur 'Let's go Brandon' on a Christmas call with Joe Biden has ensured that he meant no disrespect to the President. "At the end of the day I have nothing against Mr Biden," the 35-year-old Jared Schmeck said. "But I am frustrated because I think he can be doing a better job. I mean no disrespect to him." Also read | Caller says 'Let's Go Brandon' to Biden on annual Christmas calls The phrase 'Let's Go Brandon' is used as a substitute for 'F**k Joe Biden' and became extremely popular among Donald Trump's supporters during US Election 2020. This phrase has become famous since the time when a television journalist had argued with a race car driver Brandon Brown that a crowd member was actually saying 'Let's go Brandon' when the person was shouting vulgar things. The prank call took place during the annual call routine for the North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker, which tracks the progress of Santa’s reindeer-guided sleigh for millions of children around the country. Also read | Christmas 2021: Know where is Santa Claus right now? This is how you can track Santa Claus' location While talking to Schmeck, who had introduced himself as a dad, Biden had discussed with him what Schmeck’s four children wanted for Christmas and how his son shared the same name as Biden's son, Hunter. After a hearty conversation, Biden said "Lots of luck, dad", to which Schmeck laughed and suddenly replied, "Merry Christmas and Let’s go Brandon." While the FLOTUS (First Lady of the United States), Jill Biden, winced a little, Joe Biden smiled and said "Let's go Brandon, I agree." He tried continuing the conversation by asking "By the way are you in Oregon? Where's your home?", but the call had already been disconnected.

‘Let’s go Brandon’ Santa Tracker caller insists he meant no disrespect to Biden

<p>Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas Christmas eve was&nbsp;just perfect.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The couple celebrated the day in their Los Angeles home in California. Nick Jonas took his Instagram handle and shared a beautiful picture from the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-vicky-kaushal-calls-katrina-kaif-his-christmas-as-he-wraps-her-in-his-arms-440035" hreflang="en">Vicky Kaushal calls Katrina Kaif his Christmas as he wraps her in his arms</a></p>

<p>The picture features Priyanka, who is sitting on Nick's lap and is smiling&nbsp;as her husband&nbsp;sweetly planted&nbsp;a kiss on her cheek. The picture also features&nbsp;their three&nbsp;dogs Diana, Gino and Panda. In the background, there's a huge Christmas tree surrounded by lots and lots of gifts. The loved-up picture will surely get you in a festive spirit.<br />
<br />
Sharing the picture, Nick wrote, ''Merry Christmas everyone. From our family to yours."<br />
<br />
Take a look:&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Despite belonging to different religious and cultural backgrounds, fans always praised Priyanka and Nick for how they celebrate their several festivals together.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/83-box-office-ranveer-singh-starrer-gets-a-lukewarm-start-440117" hreflang="en">'83' box office: Ranveer Singh starrer gets a lukewarm start</a><br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Chopra recently starred in Lana Wachowski's 'Matrix Resurrections'. In the film, The Quantico actress plays the role of adult Sati and has been getting a lot of praise from critics and fans as well for her outstanding acting.&nbsp;</p>


Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas Christmas eve was just perfect. The couple celebrated the day in their Los Angeles home in California. Nick Jonas took his Instagram handle and shared a beautiful picture from the day.

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas Christmas eve was just perfect. The couple celebrated the day in their Los Angeles home in California. Nick Jonas took his Instagram handle and shared a beautiful picture from the day. Vicky Kaushal calls Katrina Kaif his Christmas as he wraps her in his arms The picture features Priyanka, who is sitting on Nick's lap and is smiling as her husband sweetly planted a kiss on her cheek. The picture also features their three dogs Diana, Gino and Panda. In the background, there's a huge Christmas tree surrounded by lots and lots of gifts. The loved-up picture will surely get you in a festive spirit. Sharing the picture, Nick wrote, ''Merry Christmas everyone. From our family to yours." Take a look: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nick Jonas (@nickjonas) × Despite belonging to different religious and cultural backgrounds, fans always praised Priyanka and Nick for how they celebrate their several festivals together. '83' box office: Ranveer Singh starrer gets a lukewarm start Meanwhile, Chopra recently starred in Lana Wachowski's 'Matrix Resurrections'. In the film, The Quantico actress plays the role of adult Sati and has been getting a lot of praise from critics and fans as well for her outstanding acting.

Priyanka Chopra can't stop blushing in the new Christmas photo with Nick Jonas

<p class="MsoNormal">The Chinese government, mainly comprised of Chinese Communist Party (CCP), has ordered locals to not celebrate Christmas as it a ‘western celebration’.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A leaked document in the media revealed that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) ordered restrictions on all kinds of Christmas celebrations, including in places of worship.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-warming-can-double-crop-pests-and-diseases-in-china-threaten-food-security-warn-scientists-439784">Global warming can double crop pests, diseases in China, warn scientists</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The initial reason for these restrictions is labelled to be surge in Covid cases in the country. It also states that there is a need of Sinicization that can help strictly forbid celebrating western culture, festivals and events, as per a report by Bitter Winter (a magazine on human rights and religious liberty).<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The day 'Christmas' or 'Holy Night,' which is coming, is imbued with deep Western religious culture. Some Western nations rely on their advanced technology and culture to spread their values and lifestyle in China, attracting our young people," the document reads. "Some business enterprises also want to take advantages of this celebration for business, so they create the surrounding feeling and social impact of this Western 'feast.' This is damaging our traditional Chinese culture." <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, the document also says that all 'cosmetic' celebrations that have been state-sanctioned in churches will not face these restrictions and a broadcast will be allowed for this.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-is-failing-439756"><strong>WATCH |</strong></a></o:p></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-is-failing-439756/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p class="MsoNormal">The document, revealed by the magazine, was apparently circulated by Department of Education of Rong'an&nbsp;county in Liuzhou city of Guangxi Zhuang&nbsp;Autonomous Region on December 20, and was meant to be kept a secret. It was, reportedly, titled 'Spreading the Chinese traditional culture and forbidding Western festival celebrations.'<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Department of Education has also "prohibit teachers and students from organizing any celebration event of this Western festival. We trust all teachers and students in school, especially but not limited to [Communist] Party members, will follow and obey the rule from the&nbsp;CCP&nbsp;Central Committee, thus becoming a model of spreading Chinese culture."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In addition to reporting any Christmas event to the authorities, the department has also designated a special officer who will be responsible for handling all related complaints.<o:p></o:p></p>


The Chinese government, mainly comprised of Chinese Communist Party (CCP), has ordered locals to not celebrate Christmas as it a ‘western celebration’. A leaked document in the media revealed that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) ordered restrictions on all kinds of Christmas celebrations, including in places of worship.

The Chinese government, mainly comprised of Chinese Communist Party (CCP), has ordered locals to not celebrate Christmas as it a ‘western celebration’. A leaked document in the media revealed that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) ordered restrictions on all kinds of Christmas celebrations, including in places of worship. Also read | Global warming can double crop pests, diseases in China, warn scientists The initial reason for these restrictions is labelled to be surge in Covid cases in the country. It also states that there is a need of Sinicization that can help strictly forbid celebrating western culture, festivals and events, as per a report by Bitter Winter (a magazine on human rights and religious liberty). "The day 'Christmas' or 'Holy Night,' which is coming, is imbued with deep Western religious culture. Some Western nations rely on their advanced technology and culture to spread their values and lifestyle in China, attracting our young people," the document reads. "Some business enterprises also want to take advantages of this celebration for business, so they create the surrounding feeling and social impact of this Western 'feast.' This is damaging our traditional Chinese culture." However, the document also says that all 'cosmetic' celebrations that have been state-sanctioned in churches will not face these restrictions and a broadcast will be allowed for this. WATCH | The document, revealed by the magazine, was apparently circulated by Department of Education of Rong'an county in Liuzhou city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on December 20, and was meant to be kept a secret. It was, reportedly, titled 'Spreading the Chinese traditional culture and forbidding Western festival celebrations.' Department of Education has also "prohibit teachers and students from organizing any celebration event of this Western festival. We trust all teachers and students in school, especially but not limited to [Communist] Party members, will follow and obey the rule from the CCP Central Committee, thus becoming a model of spreading Chinese culture." In addition to reporting any Christmas event to the authorities, the department has also designated a special officer who will be responsible for handling all related complaints.

'Damaging traditional Chinese culture': China cancels Christmas to avoid 'western' influence

<p>Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif new photo has taken the internet by storm. Newlyweds celebrated their first Christmas together and treated their fans with some insights from their home celebration.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The happily married couple shared a happy photo of them together and are looking just adorable. In the picture, Vicky is wrapping Katrina in his arms and they both are smiling as they posed for the camera.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/yearender-2021-paris-hilton-to-varun-dhawan-a-look-back-at-beautiful-celebrity-weddings-435496" hreflang="en">Yearender 2021: Paris Hilton to Varun Dhawan- A look back at beautiful celebrity weddings</a></p>

<p>In the new picture, the much-in-love couple can be seen beaming with happiness in their new home as they posed near their Christmas tree. Sharing the picture, Vicky wrote, “Meri (my) Christmas!”&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CX6Ti2KIrdC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Vicky Kaushal (@vickykaushal09)</a></p>
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<p>Katrina is looking beautiful in a white floral dress. Meanwhile, Vicky is wearing a light blue shirt with formal pants.&nbsp;In their Instagram stories, both of them also dropped beautiful Christmas decorations pictures done in their Juhu house.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Katrina announced her new project on the occasion of Christmas as well. In the new project, she will be working with Vijay Sethupati in a new film directed by Sriram Raghavan.</p>

<p><a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/meet-mr-and-mrs-kaushal-inside-katrina-kaif-vicky-kaushal-intimate-wedding-435600" hreflang="en">Meet Mr and Mrs Kaushal! Inside Katrina Kaif &amp; Vicky Kaushal intimate wedding</a><br />
<br />
“New Beginnings. BACK ON SET with director #sriramraghavan for Merry Christmas! I’ve always wanted to work with Sriram Sir, He is a master when it comes to narratives that showcase thrillers and it's an honor to be directed by him. . Super excited to be teaming up with @actorvijaysethupathi for this one produced by @rameshtaurani &amp; @sanjayroutraymatchbox,” she wrote along with the picture of the team.<br />
<br />
The couple got married in a grand wedding today (December 9) at Six Senses Fort Barwara in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>


Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif new photo has taken the internet by storm. Newlyweds celebrated their first Christmas together and treated their fans with some insights from their home celebration.

Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif new photo has taken the internet by storm. Newlyweds celebrated their first Christmas together and treated their fans with some insights from their home celebration. The happily married couple shared a happy photo of them together and are looking just adorable. In the picture, Vicky is wrapping Katrina in his arms and they both are smiling as they posed for the camera. Yearender 2021: Paris Hilton to Varun Dhawan- A look back at beautiful celebrity weddings In the new picture, the much-in-love couple can be seen beaming with happiness in their new home as they posed near their Christmas tree. Sharing the picture, Vicky wrote, “Meri (my) Christmas!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vicky Kaushal (@vickykaushal09) × Katrina is looking beautiful in a white floral dress. Meanwhile, Vicky is wearing a light blue shirt with formal pants. In their Instagram stories, both of them also dropped beautiful Christmas decorations pictures done in their Juhu house. Meanwhile, Katrina announced her new project on the occasion of Christmas as well. In the new project, she will be working with Vijay Sethupati in a new film directed by Sriram Raghavan. Meet Mr and Mrs Kaushal! Inside Katrina Kaif & Vicky Kaushal intimate wedding “New Beginnings. BACK ON SET with director #sriramraghavan for Merry Christmas! I’ve always wanted to work with Sriram Sir, He is a master when it comes to narratives that showcase thrillers and it's an honor to be directed by him. . Super excited to be teaming up with @actorvijaysethupathi for this one produced by @rameshtaurani & @sanjayroutraymatchbox,” she wrote along with the picture of the team. The couple got married in a grand wedding today (December 9) at Six Senses Fort Barwara in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan.

Vicky Kaushal calls Katrina Kaif his Christmas as he wraps her in his arms

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<p>The fun time of the year is finally here. As winter begins, festive vibes already start to kick in. Although this year the holiday season is once again affected by the deadly coronavirus, it seems like Santa Claus is immune to the virus. While most people are staying at home and practising social distancing, Santa is coming to you with gifts.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">LIVE: NORAD tracks Santa Claus' travels around the globe <a href="https://t.co/H18HGaVvcX">https://t.co/H18HGaVvcX</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1474382756645785602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Here is how you can track his location:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Santa's journey can be tracked using North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and Google. Santa is expected to travel an estimated 510,000,000 kilometres in just one night to deliver Christmas gifts&nbsp;to all children all around the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Given below are two websites where Santa can now be tracked:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.noradsanta.org/en/map" target="_blank">www.noradsanta.org</a></p>

<p><a href="https://santatracker.google.com/" target="_blank">santatracker.google.com</a></p>

<p>While NORAD started tracking Santa in 1995, Google has been tracking Santa's journey since 2004. Both the websites started providing information about Santa's location from 2:30 pm IST on Christmas eve.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-merry-christmas-2021-wishes-images-quotes-facebook--whatsapp-status-to-share-with-your-friends--family-439620"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Merry Christmas 2021: Wishes, Images, Quotes, Facebook &amp; WhatsApp status to share with your friends &amp; family</strong></a></p>

<p>Google Santa tracker also includes several games, including Santa selfie, Elf maker, Ollie under the sea, Elf ski, Gumball tilt, Present bounce, Snowball storm, Penguin dash and more.</p>

<p>One can now also track Saint Nicolas' location using the NORAD Tracks Santa app.</p>

<p>NORAD started tracking Santa after a newspaper misprinted the contact number of Santa for children. As a result, a child called the number and he was connected to US Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup at the Continental Air Defense Command Operations Center (NORAD's predecessor).</p>

<p>After this, an officer was assigned specially for taking children's calls.&nbsp;</p>


The fun time of the year is finally here. As winter begins, festive vibes already start to kick in. Although this year the holiday season is once again affected by the deadly coronavirus, it seems like Santa Claus is immune to the virus.

The fun time of the year is finally here. As winter begins, festive vibes already start to kick in. Although this year the holiday season is once again affected by the deadly coronavirus, it seems like Santa Claus is immune to the virus. While most people are staying at home and practising social distancing, Santa is coming to you with gifts. LIVE: NORAD tracks Santa Claus' travels around the globe https://t.co/H18HGaVvcX — Reuters (@Reuters) December 24, 2021 × Here is how you can track his location: Santa's journey can be tracked using North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and Google. Santa is expected to travel an estimated 510,000,000 kilometres in just one night to deliver Christmas gifts to all children all around the globe. Given below are two websites where Santa can now be tracked: www.noradsanta.org santatracker.google.com While NORAD started tracking Santa in 1995, Google has been tracking Santa's journey since 2004. Both the websites started providing information about Santa's location from 2:30 pm IST on Christmas eve. Also read | Merry Christmas 2021: Wishes, Images, Quotes, Facebook & WhatsApp status to share with your friends & family Google Santa tracker also includes several games, including Santa selfie, Elf maker, Ollie under the sea, Elf ski, Gumball tilt, Present bounce, Snowball storm, Penguin dash and more. One can now also track Saint Nicolas' location using the NORAD Tracks Santa app. NORAD started tracking Santa after a newspaper misprinted the contact number of Santa for children. As a result, a child called the number and he was connected to US Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup at the Continental Air Defense Command Operations Center (NORAD's predecessor). After this, an officer was assigned specially for taking children's calls.

Christmas 2021: Know where is Santa Claus right now? This is how you can track Santa Claus' location

<p class="MsoNormal">What was supposed to be a phone call series for Christmas in White House soon became an awkward moment for Joe Biden as a caller blurted out a vulgar anti-Biden slogan.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The phrase 'Let's Go Brandon' is known as a cleaner version of 'F**k you Biden' and has been very popular in Trump supporters since the US election 2020. This phrase has become famous since the time when a television journalist had argued with a race car driver Brandon Brown that a crowd member was actually saying 'Let's go Brandon' when the person was shouting vulgar things.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-christmas-2021-5-easy-cake-recipes-to-try-at-home-this-festive-season-439264">Christmas 2021: 5 easy cake recipes to try at home this festive season</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The President of the United States (POTUS) and the First Lady (FLOTUS) Jill Biden were on calls for the North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker, which is an annual tradition and follows the progress of Santa’s reindeer-guided sleigh for millions of children around the country.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In this call, a parent named Jared was talking Joe Biden, and towards the end of this call he suddenly blurted out "Merry Christmas and Let's Go Brandon".<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Surprisingly, Biden smiled and responded with the same slogan saying, "Let's go Brandon, I agree". Then, he proceeded to ask the caller if he was in Oregon but the call was disconnected by then.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/christmas-at-charles-dickens-humble-abode-in-london-439703"><strong>WATCH |</strong></a></o:p></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/christmas-at-charles-dickens-humble-abode-in-london-439703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p class="MsoNormal">While it is still not clear who the caller was, why did he say the slogan and why did Biden repeat it, Brandon Brown himself has expressed displeasure over his name being used as a slur in an anti-Biden campaign.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I don’t want to be the substitute for a cuss word,"&nbsp;he recently told The New York Times.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The former US President Donald Trump, too, had conducted these annual calls and had created quite some headlines, especially in 2018.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></o:p></p>


What was supposed to be a phone call series for Christmas in White House soon became an awkward moment for Joe Biden as a caller blurted out a vulgar anti-Biden slogan.

What was supposed to be a phone call series for Christmas in White House soon became an awkward moment for Joe Biden as a caller blurted out a vulgar anti-Biden slogan. The phrase 'Let's Go Brandon' is known as a cleaner version of 'F**k you Biden' and has been very popular in Trump supporters since the US election 2020. This phrase has become famous since the time when a television journalist had argued with a race car driver Brandon Brown that a crowd member was actually saying 'Let's go Brandon' when the person was shouting vulgar things. Also read | Christmas 2021: 5 easy cake recipes to try at home this festive season The President of the United States (POTUS) and the First Lady (FLOTUS) Jill Biden were on calls for the North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker, which is an annual tradition and follows the progress of Santa’s reindeer-guided sleigh for millions of children around the country. In this call, a parent named Jared was talking Joe Biden, and towards the end of this call he suddenly blurted out "Merry Christmas and Let's Go Brandon". Surprisingly, Biden smiled and responded with the same slogan saying, "Let's go Brandon, I agree". Then, he proceeded to ask the caller if he was in Oregon but the call was disconnected by then. WATCH | While it is still not clear who the caller was, why did he say the slogan and why did Biden repeat it, Brandon Brown himself has expressed displeasure over his name being used as a slur in an anti-Biden campaign. "I don’t want to be the substitute for a cuss word," he recently told The New York Times. The former US President Donald Trump, too, had conducted these annual calls and had created quite some headlines, especially in 2018. (With inputs from agencies)

Caller says 'Let's Go Brandon' to Biden on annual Christmas calls

<p>On Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to get vaccinated on Christmas Eve as a "wonderful" gift for the nation as cases soar.</p>

<p>Boris Johnson said that although little time remained to buy Christmas gifts, "there is still a wonderful thing you can give your family and the whole country... and that is to get that jab, whether it is your first or second, or your booster".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-does-it-mean-to-be-fully-vaccinated-against-covid-19-439428" hreflang="en">What does it mean to be ‘fully vaccinated’ against COVID-19?</a></strong></p>

<p>Prime Minister Johnson has rejected a harsher virus restriction over Christmas in England, despite an unusual surge of cases linked to the Omicron variant of coronavirus.&nbsp;As of now, he is focused on a campaign to provide booster shots to all adults by the end of the year.</p>

<p>As the UK set a new record of almost 120,000 cases in 24 hours on Thursday, he admitted that "after two years of this pandemic, I can't say that we are through it".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jolt-for-merck-as-france-cancels-order-for-covid-antiviral-drug-439397" hreflang="en">Jolt for Merck as France cancels order for Covid antiviral drug</a></strong></p>

<p>Last year, Johnson imposed a stay-at-home order on London and southeast England on December 19, which meant millions of people had to change their holiday plans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year he chose not to tighten rules, stating in his message, that "for millions of families up and down the country, I hope and believe that this Christmas is, and will be, significantly better than the last".</p>

<p>While encouraging people to enjoy a jolly family Christmas, he cautioned them to test themselves prior to meeting vulnerable relatives.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-post-christmas-restrictions-to-be-announced-for-uk-says-sajid-javid-439336" hreflang="en">No post-Christmas restrictions to be announced for UK, says Sajid Javid</a></strong></p>

<p>If the pile of wrapping paper is bigger than last year due to more family members attending, it's because of the vaccine rollout, he stressed.</p>

<p>Additionally, he said that getting a vaccine complied with Jesus Christ's teaching that "we should love our neighbour as we love ourselves".</p>

<p>Reports of parties held by Downing Street and other government departments during lockdown periods have hurt Johnson's popularity, and his party lost a by-election in a previously safe seat this month.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Omicron exposes the healthcare systems of the west</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-omicron-exposes-the-healthcare-systems-of-the-west-439425/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Several of his own party members have also revolted against recent Covid measures, particularly the requirement to show Covid passes to enter crowded venues like nightclubs, which they perceive as violating personal freedom.</p>

<p>Parliament as a whole passed the measure, despite the opposition of almost 100 Conservative MPs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to get vaccinated on Christmas Eve as a "wonderful" gift for the nation as cases soar. Boris Johnson said that although little time remained to buy Christmas gifts, "there is still a wonderful thing you can give your family and the whole country.

On Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to get vaccinated on Christmas Eve as a "wonderful" gift for the nation as cases soar. Boris Johnson said that although little time remained to buy Christmas gifts, "there is still a wonderful thing you can give your family and the whole country... and that is to get that jab, whether it is your first or second, or your booster". Also read | What does it mean to be ‘fully vaccinated’ against COVID-19? Prime Minister Johnson has rejected a harsher virus restriction over Christmas in England, despite an unusual surge of cases linked to the Omicron variant of coronavirus. As of now, he is focused on a campaign to provide booster shots to all adults by the end of the year. As the UK set a new record of almost 120,000 cases in 24 hours on Thursday, he admitted that "after two years of this pandemic, I can't say that we are through it". Also read | Jolt for Merck as France cancels order for Covid antiviral drug Last year, Johnson imposed a stay-at-home order on London and southeast England on December 19, which meant millions of people had to change their holiday plans. This year he chose not to tighten rules, stating in his message, that "for millions of families up and down the country, I hope and believe that this Christmas is, and will be, significantly better than the last". While encouraging people to enjoy a jolly family Christmas, he cautioned them to test themselves prior to meeting vulnerable relatives. Also read | No post-Christmas restrictions to be announced for UK, says Sajid Javid If the pile of wrapping paper is bigger than last year due to more family members attending, it's because of the vaccine rollout, he stressed. Additionally, he said that getting a vaccine complied with Jesus Christ's teaching that "we should love our neighbour as we love ourselves". Reports of parties held by Downing Street and other government departments during lockdown periods have hurt Johnson's popularity, and his party lost a by-election in a previously safe seat this month. Watch | Gravitas: Omicron exposes the healthcare systems of the west Several of his own party members have also revolted against recent Covid measures, particularly the requirement to show Covid passes to enter crowded venues like nightclubs, which they perceive as violating personal freedom. Parliament as a whole passed the measure, despite the opposition of almost 100 Conservative MPs. (With inputs from agencies)

'Love thy neighbour': UK PM Johnson urges people to follow Jesus's teachings, get vaccine this Christmas

<p>Christmas is almost here and if you still do not have a proper menu set, maybe we could be of help. While traditional Christmas cakes are best devoured if the ingredients are aged well for weeks before it goes into the cake batter and is made into a wholesome cake. Do not worry if you haven't prepped in advance for Christmas celebrations. We know that no Christmas celebration is complete without a bite of the cake and so here's presenting the easiest cake recipes for this year's Christmas.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Red Velvet Cake</strong><br />
<br />
One of the most popular cakes of all time. Most feel that Red Velvet Cake is different to make at home but that's not the case. Check out the recipe below.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="r" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aac19bab-9973-4686-bc70-ed3da3204729" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-12-23T155103.690.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<strong>INGREDIENTS</strong><br />
<strong>FOR THE CAKE</strong><br />
Cooking spray<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract<br />
2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 cup processed cocoa powder<br />
1 tsp. baking soda<br />
1 tsp. kosher salt<br />
1 cup buttermilk<br />
1 tbsp. distilled white vinegar<br />
2 tbsp. red food colouring<br />
<br />
<strong>FOR CREAM CHEESE FROSTING</strong><br />
2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened<br />
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened&nbsp;<br />
4 cup powdered sugar<br />
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract<br />
1/4 tsp. Pinch kosher salt</p>

<p><strong>Direction</strong><br />
Preheat oven to 350°. Line two 8" round cake pans with parchment paper and grease with cooking spray. In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition then add vanilla.<br />
<br />
In another large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Add half the dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined. Add buttermilk, vinegar, and red food colouring, beating to combine. Add remaining dry ingredients.<br />
<br />
Divide batter between prepared cake pans and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool 15 minutes, then invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, make the frosting: In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and salt and mix until combined. Add more powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, if necessary, until frosting is thick and a nice spreadable consistency.<br />
<br />
Assemble the cake: Using a serrated knife, level tops of cakes, reserving the scraps for decorating. Place one layer on a cake stand or serving platter, then top with a thick layer of frosting and a second cake layer. Frost top and sides of cake. Crumble reserved cake pieces and press onto sides of cake.</p>

<p><strong>Easy Christmas Cake</strong><br />
<br />
Compared to a classic Christmas cake recipe, this is an easy Christmas cake to put together and it also takes less prep time. Want to try baking this one?</p>

<p><img alt="c" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf59cc01-4040-4fd4-8835-a3e84a43b4b4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-12-23T154832.209.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>INGREDIENTS</strong><br />
3 large eggs<br />
300g plain flour<br />
250g butter, softened<br />
250g light muscovado sugar<br />
1 tbsp ground mixed spice<br />
Pinch of salt<br />
410g jar of mincemeat<br />
500g dried mixed fruit<br />
4 tbsp brandy<br />
20cm (8in) round or 18cm (7in) square cake tin, lined with baking parchment</p>

<p><strong>Direction</strong><br />
To ensure the cake is positioned centrally in the oven, put one of the shelves just below the centre of it. Set the oven to 140°C/280°F/Gas Mark 1.</p>

<p>Break the eggs into a bowl and add the rest of the ingredients, except for the brandy. Beat the mixture until smooth, then spoon it into the lined cake tin. With a wet hand, press the mixture into the tin and smooth on top, so that it’s level.</p>

<p>Bake the cake in the centre of the oven for 3 – 3.5 hours, or until the cake feels firm to the touch and a skewer comes out clean after being inserted into the cake.</p>

<p>Remove the cake from the oven and place the tin on a wire rack. Leave the cake to cool for about 15 minutes, then spoon over the brandy. Leave it to cool completely in the tin.</p>

<p>Remove the cake from the tin and peel away the lining paper. Wrap it in clean baking parchment and then foil, and store in a cool place for up to 3 months, until ready to cover with icing and decorate. Follow our guide on how to cover a cake with marzipan.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Best Carrot Cake</strong><br />
Carrot cakes are just so wholesome. With a hint of cinnamon and the sweetness of carrots, these cakes are best devoured warm. Here's the recipe.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="c" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aeee7000-995c-49a5-b698-3c1c6be0abcd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-12-23T155009.939.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>INGREDIENTS</strong><br />
<strong>FOR THE CAKE</strong><br />
Cooking spray<br />
3 c. all-purpose flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt<br />
2 tsp. baking soda<br />
2 tsp. cinnamon<br />
2 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 1/2 cup vegetable oil<br />
4 large eggs<br />
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract<br />
3 cup grated carrots<br />
1 cup pecans, roughly chopped, plus more for garnish<br />
1 cup rasisins</p>

<p><br />
<strong>FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING</strong><br />
1 block cream cheese, softened<br />
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened<br />
1 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
4 cup powdered sugar</p>

<p><strong>Direction</strong><br />
Preheat oven to 350° and grease 2 - 8" round cake pans with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon.<br />
<br />
In another large bowl with a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat together sugar and oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition, then add vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in carrots, pecans, and raisins.<br />
<br />
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, 45 minutes. Let cool 15 minutes then invert cakes onto a cooling rack and let cool completely.<br />
<br />
Make frosting: In a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and powdered sugar and beat again until smooth and spreadable consistency.<br />
<br />
Frost cake as desired and garnish with pecans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Flourless Chocolate Cake</strong><br />
The best part about this flourless cake is that it doesn't require any flour alternatives. It's just the perfect cake that happens to have zero flour. Yes, that's possible! Check out the recipe.</p>

<p><img alt="cc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62c0407e-86a1-44bc-8667-cae1b40a57e0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-12-23T155029.372.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>INGREDIENTS<br />
FOR THE CAKE</strong><br />
Cooking spray<br />
6 oz. bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped<br />
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cut into large chunks<br />
1 tsp. instant espresso powder<br />
1/4 cup hot water<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
4 large eggs<br />
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch process)<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>FOR THE GANACHE</strong><br />
1/2 cup heavy cream<br />
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips<br />
Raspberries, for serving</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Directions</strong><br />
Preheat oven to 350° and grease an 8" springform pan with cooking spray.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Make cake: Place a small saucepan filled halfway with water over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Place bittersweet chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and set over the simmering pot, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir until chocolate and butter are completely melted. Turn off heat and remove the bowl from the saucepan.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Dissolve espresso powder in hot water. Add sugar and espresso to melted chocolate and whisk until completely combined then add eggs and whisk to combine. Stir in cocoa powder. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
Pour batter into the prepared springform pan and bake until just set in the middle and a thin crust forms, about 35 minutes. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
Let the cake cool for 15 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Let the cake cool completely.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, make ganache: Place heavy cream in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then pour hot cream over chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then whisk to combine.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Pour ganache over the cake and smooth with an offset spatula. Place in refrigerator until set, if desired, about 10 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
Top with raspberries or strawberries to serve.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Apple Spiced Cake</strong><br />
The warm apple spice cake and hot cup of tea is just the best combination for Christmas, isn't it? Here's the recipe of the yummy cake</p>

<p><strong>INGREDIENTS</strong><br />
3 Granny Smith Apples<br />
2 cup Macintosh apples<br />
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice<br />
3 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp. kosher salt<br />
1 tsp. ground cinnamon<br />
4 large eggs<br />
2 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 cup vegetable oil<br />
1/2 cup orange juice<br />
2 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
confectioners’ sugar</p>

<p><strong>Direction</strong><br />
Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9- by 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Line with parchment, leaving an overhang on two sides.<br />
<br />
In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.<br />
<br />
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, oil, orange juice, and vanilla. Add the flour mixture and whisk together just until combined. Add half the apples and mix to combine. Spread into the prepared pan.<br />
<br />
Arrange the remaining apples on top. Sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon and bake until a wooden pick inserted in the centre comes out clean, 55 to 60 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then, using the overhangs, transfer cake to a wire rack to cool completely; dust with confectioners' sugar.</p>


Christmas is almost here and if you still do not have a proper menu set, maybe we could be of help. While traditional Christmas cakes are best devoured if the ingredients are aged well for weeks before it goes into the cake batter and is made into a wholesome cake.

Christmas is almost here and if you still do not have a proper menu set, maybe we could be of help. While traditional Christmas cakes are best devoured if the ingredients are aged well for weeks before it goes into the cake batter and is made into a wholesome cake. Do not worry if you haven't prepped in advance for Christmas celebrations. We know that no Christmas celebration is complete without a bite of the cake and so here's presenting the easiest cake recipes for this year's Christmas. Red Velvet Cake One of the most popular cakes of all time. Most feel that Red Velvet Cake is different to make at home but that's not the case. Check out the recipe below. INGREDIENTS FOR THE CAKE Cooking spray 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup processed cocoa powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 cup buttermilk 1 tbsp. distilled white vinegar 2 tbsp. red food colouring FOR CREAM CHEESE FROSTING 2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened 4 cup powdered sugar 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1/4 tsp. Pinch kosher salt Direction Preheat oven to 350°. Line two 8" round cake pans with parchment paper and grease with cooking spray. In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition then add vanilla. In another large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Add half the dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined. Add buttermilk, vinegar, and red food colouring, beating to combine. Add remaining dry ingredients. Divide batter between prepared cake pans and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool 15 minutes, then invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, make the frosting: In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and salt and mix until combined. Add more powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, if necessary, until frosting is thick and a nice spreadable consistency. Assemble the cake: Using a serrated knife, level tops of cakes, reserving the scraps for decorating. Place one layer on a cake stand or serving platter, then top with a thick layer of frosting and a second cake layer. Frost top and sides of cake. Crumble reserved cake pieces and press onto sides of cake. Easy Christmas Cake Compared to a classic Christmas cake recipe, this is an easy Christmas cake to put together and it also takes less prep time. Want to try baking this one? INGREDIENTS 3 large eggs 300g plain flour 250g butter, softened 250g light muscovado sugar 1 tbsp ground mixed spice Pinch of salt 410g jar of mincemeat 500g dried mixed fruit 4 tbsp brandy 20cm (8in) round or 18cm (7in) square cake tin, lined with baking parchment Direction To ensure the cake is positioned centrally in the oven, put one of the shelves just below the centre of it. Set the oven to 140°C/280°F/Gas Mark 1. Break the eggs into a bowl and add the rest of the ingredients, except for the brandy. Beat the mixture until smooth, then spoon it into the lined cake tin. With a wet hand, press the mixture into the tin and smooth on top, so that it’s level. Bake the cake in the centre of the oven for 3 – 3.5 hours, or until the cake feels firm to the touch and a skewer comes out clean after being inserted into the cake. Remove the cake from the oven and place the tin on a wire rack. Leave the cake to cool for about 15 minutes, then spoon over the brandy. Leave it to cool completely in the tin. Remove the cake from the tin and peel away the lining paper. Wrap it in clean baking parchment and then foil, and store in a cool place for up to 3 months, until ready to cover with icing and decorate. Follow our guide on how to cover a cake with marzipan. Best Carrot Cake Carrot cakes are just so wholesome. With a hint of cinnamon and the sweetness of carrots, these cakes are best devoured warm. Here's the recipe. INGREDIENTS FOR THE CAKE Cooking spray 3 c. all-purpose flour 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 2 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. cinnamon 2 cup granulated sugar 1 1/2 cup vegetable oil 4 large eggs 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 3 cup grated carrots 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped, plus more for garnish 1 cup rasisins FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING 1 block cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 4 cup powdered sugar Direction Preheat oven to 350° and grease 2 - 8" round cake pans with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon. In another large bowl with a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat together sugar and oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition, then add vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in carrots, pecans, and raisins. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, 45 minutes. Let cool 15 minutes then invert cakes onto a cooling rack and let cool completely. Make frosting: In a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and powdered sugar and beat again until smooth and spreadable consistency. Frost cake as desired and garnish with pecans. Flourless Chocolate Cake The best part about this flourless cake is that it doesn't require any flour alternatives. It's just the perfect cake that happens to have zero flour. Yes, that's possible! Check out the recipe. INGREDIENTS FOR THE CAKE Cooking spray 6 oz. bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cut into large chunks 1 tsp. instant espresso powder 1/4 cup hot water 1 cup granulated sugar 4 large eggs 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch process) FOR THE GANACHE 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips Raspberries, for serving Directions Preheat oven to 350° and grease an 8" springform pan with cooking spray. Make cake: Place a small saucepan filled halfway with water over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Place bittersweet chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and set over the simmering pot, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir until chocolate and butter are completely melted. Turn off heat and remove the bowl from the saucepan. Dissolve espresso powder in hot water. Add sugar and espresso to melted chocolate and whisk until completely combined then add eggs and whisk to combine. Stir in cocoa powder. Pour batter into the prepared springform pan and bake until just set in the middle and a thin crust forms, about 35 minutes. Let the cake cool for 15 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Let the cake cool completely. Meanwhile, make ganache: Place heavy cream in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then pour hot cream over chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then whisk to combine. Pour ganache over the cake and smooth with an offset spatula. Place in refrigerator until set, if desired, about 10 minutes. Top with raspberries or strawberries to serve. Apple Spiced Cake The warm apple spice cake and hot cup of tea is just the best combination for Christmas, isn't it? Here's the recipe of the yummy cake INGREDIENTS 3 Granny Smith Apples 2 cup Macintosh apples 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 3 cup all-purpose flour 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 4 large eggs 2 cup granulated sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup orange juice 2 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract confectioners’ sugar Direction Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9- by 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Line with parchment, leaving an overhang on two sides. In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, oil, orange juice, and vanilla. Add the flour mixture and whisk together just until combined. Add half the apples and mix to combine. Spread into the prepared pan. Arrange the remaining apples on top. Sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon and bake until a wooden pick inserted in the centre comes out clean, 55 to 60 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then, using the overhangs, transfer cake to a wire rack to cool completely; dust with confectioners' sugar.

Christmas 2021: 5 easy cake recipes to try at home this festive season

<p>The UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson may have declared that the country will not go under lockdown till Christmas, but Queen Elizabeth II has decided to call off the traditional Christmas plans at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England amid rise in COVID-19 cases across the UK.<br />
<br />
The Queen will stay on at Windsor Castle amidst a surge in coronavirus cases being driven by the Omicron variant of COVID-19.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-experts-disagree-with-boris-johnsons-plan-of-delaying-covid-regulations-438667">UK experts disagree with Boris Johnson's plan of delaying Covid regulations</a><br />
<br />
On Monday, she took what Buckingham Palace referred to as a 'personal decision' to also call off plans to travel to Sandringham, where members of the royal family traditionally gather for church on Christmas morning.<br />
<br />
The 95-year-old Queen had already called off an annual pre-Christmas lunch tradition for the royal family due to the surge in cases.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"It reflects a precautionary approach," Buckingham Palace aides were quoted as saying.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/feeling-like-march-2020-heres-how-covid-omicron-is-affecting-entertainment-again-438366" hreflang="en">Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again</a><br />
<br />
This would be the second year in row that the Queen cancelled her traditional Christmas trip to Sandringham and the first without her husband Prince Philip, who passed away in April 2021. The couple had spent Christmas together last year at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, south-east England. At that time, there was a surge in Delta variants of COVID-19&nbsp;in the country.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
This year, family members are expected to visit the monarch over the Christmas period at the castle and "all appropriate guidelines" will be followed, the palace said. Though it remains unconfirmed which members of the family would be visiting over the course of this weekend.<br />
<br />
The change of plan is in response to growing concerns about the pandemic and the Omicron variant, amid calls for limiting contacts during the Christmas festivities. Ahead of Christmas, the Queen generally invites her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to join her at Buckingham Palace in London before she departs for her annual Christmas stay at Sandringham.<br />
<br />
This marks the second year when the pre-Christmas and Christmas get-togethers in several households in the UK have been called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
<br />
It comes as the government said it is monitoring data 'hour by hour' on whether legal restrictions need to be imposed on Christmas gatherings as the UK recorded another daily COVID high of 91,743 infections.<br />
<br />
"Obviously, there's considerable uncertainty within the Omicron data we're concerned about the increasing growth in cases, particularly in London," said UK Cabinet Office minister Steve Barclay.<br />
<br />
With reference to further lockdown measures, he added, "But there is a considerable time lag between those catching the infection and presenting as cases at hospital and of course, that needs to be looked at... Alongside the booster campaign, the increase in treatments, the changes in behaviour as a consequence of Plan B, which will also have an impact on those hospital admissions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-at-work-talking-about-work-boris-johnson-reacts-to-downing-street-garden-party-photo-438627">'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo</a></strong><br />
<br />
"We're balancing that against the wider economic consequences of any further restrictions which also carry health risks... In terms of the mental health consequences, for example, as well as those wider economic consequences."<br />
Current Plan B rules for England include COVID vaccine passes for events, face masks in most indoor settings and people being urged to work from home if they can. Other parts of the United Kingdom have similar rules, with Scotland asking people to limit social contact to three households at a time in the run-up to Christmas and Wales closing nightclubs from December 27.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that a New Year's Eve celebration event planned at Trafalgar Square will not go ahead because of the surge in Omicron cases in the UK capital. He said the event, for 6,500 key workers and members of the public, was being cancelled "in the interests of public safety".</p>


The UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson may have declared that the country will not go under lockdown till Christmas, but Queen Elizabeth II has decided to call off the traditional Christmas plans at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England amid rise in COVID-19 cases across the UK.

The UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson may have declared that the country will not go under lockdown till Christmas, but Queen Elizabeth II has decided to call off the traditional Christmas plans at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England amid rise in COVID-19 cases across the UK. The Queen will stay on at Windsor Castle amidst a surge in coronavirus cases being driven by the Omicron variant of COVID-19. UK experts disagree with Boris Johnson's plan of delaying Covid regulations On Monday, she took what Buckingham Palace referred to as a 'personal decision' to also call off plans to travel to Sandringham, where members of the royal family traditionally gather for church on Christmas morning. The 95-year-old Queen had already called off an annual pre-Christmas lunch tradition for the royal family due to the surge in cases. "It reflects a precautionary approach," Buckingham Palace aides were quoted as saying. Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again This would be the second year in row that the Queen cancelled her traditional Christmas trip to Sandringham and the first without her husband Prince Philip, who passed away in April 2021. The couple had spent Christmas together last year at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, south-east England. At that time, there was a surge in Delta variants of COVID-19 in the country. This year, family members are expected to visit the monarch over the Christmas period at the castle and "all appropriate guidelines" will be followed, the palace said. Though it remains unconfirmed which members of the family would be visiting over the course of this weekend. The change of plan is in response to growing concerns about the pandemic and the Omicron variant, amid calls for limiting contacts during the Christmas festivities. Ahead of Christmas, the Queen generally invites her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to join her at Buckingham Palace in London before she departs for her annual Christmas stay at Sandringham. This marks the second year when the pre-Christmas and Christmas get-togethers in several households in the UK have been called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It comes as the government said it is monitoring data 'hour by hour' on whether legal restrictions need to be imposed on Christmas gatherings as the UK recorded another daily COVID high of 91,743 infections. "Obviously, there's considerable uncertainty within the Omicron data we're concerned about the increasing growth in cases, particularly in London," said UK Cabinet Office minister Steve Barclay. With reference to further lockdown measures, he added, "But there is a considerable time lag between those catching the infection and presenting as cases at hospital and of course, that needs to be looked at... Alongside the booster campaign, the increase in treatments, the changes in behaviour as a consequence of Plan B, which will also have an impact on those hospital admissions. Also read | 'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo "We're balancing that against the wider economic consequences of any further restrictions which also carry health risks... In terms of the mental health consequences, for example, as well as those wider economic consequences." Current Plan B rules for England include COVID vaccine passes for events, face masks in most indoor settings and people being urged to work from home if they can. Other parts of the United Kingdom have similar rules, with Scotland asking people to limit social contact to three households at a time in the run-up to Christmas and Wales closing nightclubs from December 27. Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that a New Year's Eve celebration event planned at Trafalgar Square will not go ahead because of the surge in Omicron cases in the UK capital. He said the event, for 6,500 key workers and members of the public, was being cancelled "in the interests of public safety".

Queen Elizabeth II cancels traditional Christmas plans amid Omicron surge

<p>There is hope for holiday-loving cord-cutters who don’t have access to the Hallmark Channel and Lifetime’s bulging libraries and have already binged the new Netflix offerings: Other streaming services have stepped up their game when it comes to tinselly and cheery originals.</p>

<p>Here are five new movies that run the gamut from violent to heartwarming. Just try to guess where the new “Home Alone” installment falls in this range.</p>

<p><strong>‘The Advent Calendar’</strong></p>

<p>As much as many people like to complain about the holidays, their actual experience remains fairly mild and any mention of nightmares is largely metaphorical. Not so in this new French-Belgian movie, which is streaming on the horror platform Shudder, and where the gore and violence are very real.</p>

<p>Eva (Eugénie Derouand) is a former dancer who began using a wheelchair after a car accident. Her best and apparently only friend, Sophie (Honorine Magnier), gives her a beautifully designed German advent calendar for Christmas. It’s a gift that keeps on giving — and not in a good way, because a malevolent force becomes unleashed.</p>

<p>The most interesting aspect of writer-director Patrick Ridremont’s shockfest is that Eva is a complicated, flawed protagonist. Because she is in a wheelchair, she is constantly mistreated and bullied by callous colleagues and friends. But the advent calendar also exploits her bitter regrets and frustrations — it is those colleagues, not her disability, that have made her vulnerable to the temptations and delusions that her new possession feeds on.</p>

<p><em>Stream it on Shudder.</em></p>

<p><strong>‘8-Bit Christmas’</strong></p>

<p>The elevator pitch for this HBO Max film is simple: imagine “A Christmas Story” but in the 1980s, and with a Nintendo Entertainment System instead of the Red Ryder BB gun.</p>

<p>To stop her incessant requests for a cellphone, Jake (Neil Patrick Harris) tells his daughter, Annie (Sophia Reid-Gantzert), a long, convoluted story — which he clearly hopes is a teachable moment — about the winter when he was 11 and desperately trying to get his hands on the console every kid coveted.</p>

<p>Most of the film stays in the ’80s with young Jake (the very good Winslow Fegley), as he and his friends cook up incredibly elaborate schemes to procure that Nintendo. One of them even includes actually working hard selling wreaths to win a contest with a Nintendo as the grand prize.</p>

<p>The best part of the movie, at least for adult viewers, is a wonderful performance by Steve Zahn as the young Jake’s father, simultaneously cranky and warm, and with a welcome soupçon of almost unsettling unpredictability. But while there are plenty of references to the 1980s, including a subplot about the scarcity of a certain Cabbage Patch Kid, the decade’s main influence is in the storytelling, which often recalls the “National Lampoon” movies at their most politically incorrect — think projectile vomiting, something happening to a family dog, a slightly gonzo vibe.</p>

<p><em>Stream it on HBO Max.</em></p>

<p><strong>‘Home Sweet Home Alone’</strong></p>

<p>Unless you are a dedicated fan, you may not have realized that the 1990 hit “Home Alone” had turned into a franchise. All the films involve a boy who somehow ends up on his own during the holidays and must fend off intruders. In the latest and sixth installment, available on Disney+, it’s the turn of Max (Archie Yates, from “Jojo Rabbit”) to be mistakenly left behind by his family — this time as they leave for vacation in Japan.</p>

<p>A key narrative switch is that this film is mostly told from the perspective of the home invaders, the cash-strapped Jeff and Pam McKenzie (Rob Delaney and Ellie Kemper), who try to retrieve a precious possession they think was stolen by Max. As funny as Delaney and Kemper are — which is very, and they should get a franchise of their own — watching a couple afraid to lose their house suffer through a booby-trapped gauntlet devised by a rich brat does not exactly feel hilarious right now.</p>

<p>As for the original forgotten kid, Kevin McCallister, we learn from his slovenly older brother Buzz (still played by Devin Ratray three decades later) that he now runs a home-security company and still likes pranks. Sounds like an open invitation for Kevin’s eventual return to the franchise’s fold, were Macaulay Culkin ever to decide that he’s game.</p>

<p><em>Stream it on Disney+</em></p>

<p><strong>‘The Housewives of the North Pole’</strong></p>

<p>North Pole, Vermont, is the kind of only-in-movies small New England town whose folksy Main Street has all the ritzy bearings of Rodeo Drive. Which sort of makes sense since its self-proclaimed queen, Trish, is played by Kyle Richards of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”</p>

<p>Trish always wins the annual Christmas home-decorating contest, thanks to the help of her best friend, the sweet-tempered artist Diana (Betsy Brandt, of “Breaking Bad”). But when the women’s friendship abruptly flames out, Trish’s streak is compromised while Diana is left feeling betrayed and lonely. Don’t worry, lessons will be learned and bridges will be mended.</p>

<p>Accepting a parallel universe where a Vermont burg hosts insane displays of ostentatious wealth and folks brave December in shorts and a T-shirt without freezing to death will greatly improve your chances of enjoying this Peacock original. Indeed, the movie is so nuttily untethered to any semblance of reality that it’s almost enjoyable. How far can it go? After a while, you even start thinking that everybody is in on the joke.</p>

<p>But what is that joke, exactly? A satire of a status-obsessed, by-any-means-necessary woman with a lot of time on her hands? “The Housewives of the North Pole” never quite goes there.</p>

<p><em>Stream it on Peacock.</em></p>

<p><strong>‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas’</strong></p>

<p>In yet another example of a canceled show finding a new life on a different platform and, in this case, a different format, the Roku Channel’s first original feature picks up where Season 2 of the NBC series “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” left off.</p>

<p>The overall premise is that the title character (Jane Levy) hears people’s emotions as songs. And now so does her boyfriend, Max (Skylar Astin). Zoey provides a very brief explanation/recap at the start for newcomers, but they are largely on their own — “Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas” is a gift to fans of the show, now watching the heroine try to get through her first holiday season without her late father.</p>

<p>Those with a low tolerance for Christmas tunes will be glad to hear that while the movie has its fair share of them, it also incorporates regular songs — Mary Steenburgen’s version of “Call Me Maybe” is a sweet highlight. Other pluses include terrific performances by Alex Newell, back as the gender-nonconforming Mo, and Bernadette Peters as Steenburgen’s friend. Overall, though, the film may feel too insular to those who have not already embraced its whimsical world.</p>

<p><em>Stream it on the Roku Channel.</em></p>


There is hope for holiday-loving cord-cutters who don’t have access to the Hallmark Channel and Lifetime’s bulging libraries and have already binged the new Netflix offerings: Other streaming services have stepped up their game when it comes to tinselly and cheery originals.

There is hope for holiday-loving cord-cutters who don’t have access to the Hallmark Channel and Lifetime’s bulging libraries and have already binged the new Netflix offerings: Other streaming services have stepped up their game when it comes to tinselly and cheery originals. Here are five new movies that run the gamut from violent to heartwarming. Just try to guess where the new “Home Alone” installment falls in this range. ‘The Advent Calendar’ As much as many people like to complain about the holidays, their actual experience remains fairly mild and any mention of nightmares is largely metaphorical. Not so in this new French-Belgian movie, which is streaming on the horror platform Shudder, and where the gore and violence are very real. Eva (Eugénie Derouand) is a former dancer who began using a wheelchair after a car accident. Her best and apparently only friend, Sophie (Honorine Magnier), gives her a beautifully designed German advent calendar for Christmas. It’s a gift that keeps on giving — and not in a good way, because a malevolent force becomes unleashed. The most interesting aspect of writer-director Patrick Ridremont’s shockfest is that Eva is a complicated, flawed protagonist. Because she is in a wheelchair, she is constantly mistreated and bullied by callous colleagues and friends. But the advent calendar also exploits her bitter regrets and frustrations — it is those colleagues, not her disability, that have made her vulnerable to the temptations and delusions that her new possession feeds on. Stream it on Shudder. ‘8-Bit Christmas’ The elevator pitch for this HBO Max film is simple: imagine “A Christmas Story” but in the 1980s, and with a Nintendo Entertainment System instead of the Red Ryder BB gun. To stop her incessant requests for a cellphone, Jake (Neil Patrick Harris) tells his daughter, Annie (Sophia Reid-Gantzert), a long, convoluted story — which he clearly hopes is a teachable moment — about the winter when he was 11 and desperately trying to get his hands on the console every kid coveted. Most of the film stays in the ’80s with young Jake (the very good Winslow Fegley), as he and his friends cook up incredibly elaborate schemes to procure that Nintendo. One of them even includes actually working hard selling wreaths to win a contest with a Nintendo as the grand prize. The best part of the movie, at least for adult viewers, is a wonderful performance by Steve Zahn as the young Jake’s father, simultaneously cranky and warm, and with a welcome soupçon of almost unsettling unpredictability. But while there are plenty of references to the 1980s, including a subplot about the scarcity of a certain Cabbage Patch Kid, the decade’s main influence is in the storytelling, which often recalls the “National Lampoon” movies at their most politically incorrect — think projectile vomiting, something happening to a family dog, a slightly gonzo vibe. Stream it on HBO Max. ‘Home Sweet Home Alone’ Unless you are a dedicated fan, you may not have realized that the 1990 hit “Home Alone” had turned into a franchise. All the films involve a boy who somehow ends up on his own during the holidays and must fend off intruders. In the latest and sixth installment, available on Disney+, it’s the turn of Max (Archie Yates, from “Jojo Rabbit”) to be mistakenly left behind by his family — this time as they leave for vacation in Japan. A key narrative switch is that this film is mostly told from the perspective of the home invaders, the cash-strapped Jeff and Pam McKenzie (Rob Delaney and Ellie Kemper), who try to retrieve a precious possession they think was stolen by Max. As funny as Delaney and Kemper are — which is very, and they should get a franchise of their own — watching a couple afraid to lose their house suffer through a booby-trapped gauntlet devised by a rich brat does not exactly feel hilarious right now. As for the original forgotten kid, Kevin McCallister, we learn from his slovenly older brother Buzz (still played by Devin Ratray three decades later) that he now runs a home-security company and still likes pranks. Sounds like an open invitation for Kevin’s eventual return to the franchise’s fold, were Macaulay Culkin ever to decide that he’s game. Stream it on Disney+ ‘The Housewives of the North Pole’ North Pole, Vermont, is the kind of only-in-movies small New England town whose folksy Main Street has all the ritzy bearings of Rodeo Drive. Which sort of makes sense since its self-proclaimed queen, Trish, is played by Kyle Richards of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Trish always wins the annual Christmas home-decorating contest, thanks to the help of her best friend, the sweet-tempered artist Diana (Betsy Brandt, of “Breaking Bad”). But when the women’s friendship abruptly flames out, Trish’s streak is compromised while Diana is left feeling betrayed and lonely. Don’t worry, lessons will be learned and bridges will be mended. Accepting a parallel universe where a Vermont burg hosts insane displays of ostentatious wealth and folks brave December in shorts and a T-shirt without freezing to death will greatly improve your chances of enjoying this Peacock original. Indeed, the movie is so nuttily untethered to any semblance of reality that it’s almost enjoyable. How far can it go? After a while, you even start thinking that everybody is in on the joke. But what is that joke, exactly? A satire of a status-obsessed, by-any-means-necessary woman with a lot of time on her hands? “The Housewives of the North Pole” never quite goes there. Stream it on Peacock. ‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas’ In yet another example of a canceled show finding a new life on a different platform and, in this case, a different format, the Roku Channel’s first original feature picks up where Season 2 of the NBC series “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” left off. The overall premise is that the title character (Jane Levy) hears people’s emotions as songs. And now so does her boyfriend, Max (Skylar Astin). Zoey provides a very brief explanation/recap at the start for newcomers, but they are largely on their own — “Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas” is a gift to fans of the show, now watching the heroine try to get through her first holiday season without her late father. Those with a low tolerance for Christmas tunes will be glad to hear that while the movie has its fair share of them, it also incorporates regular songs — Mary Steenburgen’s version of “Call Me Maybe” is a sweet highlight. Other pluses include terrific performances by Alex Newell, back as the gender-nonconforming Mo, and Bernadette Peters as Steenburgen’s friend. Overall, though, the film may feel too insular to those who have not already embraced its whimsical world. Stream it on the Roku Channel.

5 holiday movies to stream this Christmas

<p>Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Christmas plans doesn't involve being in the UK for the holidays, reports claim.</p>

<p><br />
The couple will not be with Queen Elizabeth II’s despite this being her first Christmas without husband, Prince Phillip, who passed away in April. The 95-year-old is also grappling with health problems lately.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-new-poster-for-the-matrix-resurrections-teases-whats-in-store-for-fans-430142" hreflang="en">New poster for 'The Matrix Resurrections' teases what's in store for fans</a></p>

<p><br />
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have reportedly been sent an invitation to join the royal family for the holidays at their Sandringham residence but they will not be attending, multiple royal sources told media outlets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
"There’s a lot that goes into the logistics and the planning of the family Christmas, so of course, staff know that Harry and Meghan are not coming. If they were, they would have communicated it to their family by now. But this is Her Majesty’s first Christmas without her husband, so one would have hoped they would want to be with her," one royal source told a news website.</p>

<p><br />
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle not going despite the invitation is believed to avoid the headlines that would soon follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-shawn-mendes-camila-cabello-break-up-will-continue-to-be-best-friends-430151" hreflang="en">Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello break up, will continue to be 'best friends'</a></p>

<p><br />
“I think everyone understands there will be a frenzy when they both come back to the UK, but they need to rip the [Band-Aid] off and get on with it.” the source added.</p>

<p><br />
Traditionally, the Queen is joined by family at Sandringham, her country estate, who accompany her to a church service. The holidays is usually spent with Prince Charles, Camilla Parker-Bowles, Prince William and wife Kate Middleton.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
Harry and Markle are also are not expected to attend the Queen’s annual Christmas lunch for her extended family to be held at Buckingham Palace. This year, however, sources say the same will be hosted at Windsor Castle, where the Queen spends most of her time these days as she's recovering from a bad back at the moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-preity-zinta-and-husband-gene-goodenough-are-now-parents-to-twins-430174" hreflang="en">Preity Zinta and husband Gene Goodenough are now parents to twins</a></p>

<p><br />
“If that is the first time they are back in the country since Megxit, and they suck all the oxygen from the Queen, that will be just terrible,” the source said.</p>

<p><br />
The spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were unavailable for comment, reports an outlet.&nbsp;</p>


Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Christmas plans doesn't involve being in the UK for the holidays, reports claim. The couple will not be with Queen Elizabeth II’s despite this being her first Christmas without husband, Prince Phillip, who passed away in April.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Christmas plans doesn't involve being in the UK for the holidays, reports claim. The couple will not be with Queen Elizabeth II’s despite this being her first Christmas without husband, Prince Phillip, who passed away in April. The 95-year-old is also grappling with health problems lately. Also read: New poster for 'The Matrix Resurrections' teases what's in store for fans The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have reportedly been sent an invitation to join the royal family for the holidays at their Sandringham residence but they will not be attending, multiple royal sources told media outlets. "There’s a lot that goes into the logistics and the planning of the family Christmas, so of course, staff know that Harry and Meghan are not coming. If they were, they would have communicated it to their family by now. But this is Her Majesty’s first Christmas without her husband, so one would have hoped they would want to be with her," one royal source told a news website. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle not going despite the invitation is believed to avoid the headlines that would soon follow. Also read: Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello break up, will continue to be 'best friends' “I think everyone understands there will be a frenzy when they both come back to the UK, but they need to rip the [Band-Aid] off and get on with it.” the source added. Traditionally, the Queen is joined by family at Sandringham, her country estate, who accompany her to a church service. The holidays is usually spent with Prince Charles, Camilla Parker-Bowles, Prince William and wife Kate Middleton. Harry and Markle are also are not expected to attend the Queen’s annual Christmas lunch for her extended family to be held at Buckingham Palace. This year, however, sources say the same will be hosted at Windsor Castle, where the Queen spends most of her time these days as she's recovering from a bad back at the moment. Also read: Preity Zinta and husband Gene Goodenough are now parents to twins “If that is the first time they are back in the country since Megxit, and they suck all the oxygen from the Queen, that will be just terrible,” the source said. The spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were unavailable for comment, reports an outlet.

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle to skip Christmas celebrations with Queen Elizabeth

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