The theme tune was changed - and changed back again; other soaps have come - and gone (remember Eldorado?); and it's now screened thrice-weekly.
That Walford spirit has kept EastEnders on our screens since February 1985 and tonight, as the 1,000th episode rolls off the production line, it's Albert Square's staunch survivors, the Fowlers, who make sure things go with a swing.
As Nigel and Debbie set off for the church, it's all hands on deck in Albert Square to give them a really special day.
(For cast see Thursday)
(Stereo) (Subtitled)
(See This Week page 6)