Prince William and Kate Middleton's (opens in new tab) children, Prince George (7), Princess Charlotte (5), and Prince Louis (2), made a very rare public appearance that surprised and delighted royal watchers.

The three accompanied their parents to see the pantomime "Pantoland" performed at the London Palladium. (A pantomime, or "panto," is a farce often performed on holidays in England. Famously, Queen Elizabeth herself attended several pantos (opens in new tab) with her sister Princess Margaret as a child.) Today's special performance, according to royal reporter (opens in new tab) Lizzie Robinson, "several hundred seats" to see the show, along with their families were given to celebrate the work of the essential workers."

George, Charlotte, and Louis walked the red carpet together, hand in hand with William and Kate. George wore a classy red and blue striped sweater and collared shirt, Charlotte wore a checked dress and black tights, and Louis went casual in a dark blue jacket. George looked especially good with his father's blue blazer and red sweater and collared shirt. And Kate, as always, was stylish in a dress and heels.

Prior to the performance, William gave a speech in which he said, "Lady Catherine, George, Charlotte, Louis, and I are all very much looking forward to the show." He further praised those in attendance. He said, "We are here tonight for a very special performance. What makes it special is all of you key workers in the audience here. The same goes for your families, who probably haven't had the opportunity to see you as often as they would have imagined. It is wonderful to have you all here with us tonight."

"From all of us, a very happy Christmas to you all!"