Prince Harry 'canceled' 30th birthday party at 'last minute' because of Kate Middleton'

Prince Harry is undoubtedly preparing for a grand celebration as his 40th birthday is just around the corner.

The Duke of Sussex will mark this significant milestone on Sunday , spending time with his wife Meghan and their two children, as well as enjoying a lads' getaway with friends. It's hard to believe how much has changed for Harry since his last big birthday.

A decade ago, when he turned 30, Harry was still a working royal, single, childless, and seemingly close to his now estranged brother Prince William, and sister-in-law Kate.

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Interestingly, it was reported that in the lead-up to his 30th birthday in 2014, William and Kate planned an intimate birthday dinner for Harry. The guest list included his Royal cousins Princesses Beatrice, Eugenie, and Zara Tindall, along with close friends, all set to gather at Kensington Palace.

However, it appears that Harry canceled the party at the last minute as the day drew near. Just before his birthday, the now-Princess of Wales began suffering from severe morning sickness while pregnant with Princess Charlotte, reports the Mirror .

Kensington Palace officials confirmed at the time that Kate was experiencing morning sickness after becoming pregnant for the second time. Given his sister-in-law's condition, Harry decided to call off the party.

A source told the Mirror: "Harry was in no doubt that the party should be postponed, even though 30 is an important milestone. Kate had been very involved in organizing Harry's party, and once she fell ill he felt it wrong to let the event go ahead."

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Nonetheless, Vanity Fair reported that the celebration did proceed at Clarence House rather than Kensington Palace, with King Charles reportedly sending champagne for the attendees' enjoyment. With his significant birthday on Sunday, reports suggest Harry will venture on a getaway with some of his "closest pals" post-celebration, leaving Meghan behind with their two children.

The exact destination of the Duke's journey remains undisclosed, but PEOPLE magazine has indicated that Harry will have a "gathering of close friends internationally". Among those who remain tight with the Duke is his mate from the polo field, Nacho Figueras.

Previously, Harry's escapades with friends included the notorious Las Vegas trip in 2012, when he made headlines for his exuberant celebrations in 'Sin City'.

However, Harry ensures to allocate birthday time for Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet as well. PEOPLE reveals that the get-together with his close friends will occur after he has spent the actual day with his family back in their Montecito residence.

Just the day prior to his birthday, he spoke about finding joy in fatherhood.

For him, nothing can compare to the gift of fatherhood, saying: "The best gift I've ever been given is, without a doubt, my kids," and adding, "I enjoy watching them grow every single day, and I love being their dad."

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