It's that time of year again, when the children of Monaco excitedly wait for a visit from a special man who lives on high and comes bearing gifts.
And youngsters of the municipality certainly weren't disappointed when their Monarch Prince Albert and his wife Charlene joined them for the annual Christmas Celebration For Monaco Children fete on Wednesday. Both royals looked thrilled as they met Santa and handed out gifts to cheering, hat-wearing youngsters who had come to visit the royal palace – and head home with some regal treats. Next year, Charlene may well have her own little prince or princess to dote on, but in the meantime, the blonde was content sharing Christmas with local youngsters, and was clearly in her element as the children surrounded her – a sure sign that she'll be a loving mum when her own time comes.
One person Charlene will be able to swap tips with is Tatiana Santo Domingo – the expectant fianceé of her nephew, Andrea Casiraghi. Back in November, Andrea 's pretty partner showed off a sizeable baby bump, confirming rumours the Columbian heiress is pregnant. The new baby will be third in line to the throne given that Prince Albert, 53, does not yet have any children with South African-born Charlene.