Christmas has arrived early in Walford. Just three months before the big day, EastEnders has given viewers a first glimpse of its dazzling holiday makeover. But while the Square sparkles with festive cheer, fans know the soap never stages Christmas without heartbreak, scandal, or shocking revelations.

Albert Square’s Festive Transformation

The BBC set has been completely overhauled, with twinkling lights and glittering decorations covering every corner of Albert Square. Two towering Christmas trees take center stage this year — one in the Square’s gardens and another outside the Prince Albert.

The Queen Vic glows under strings of fairy lights, while Walford Market has been turned into a vibrant hub of festive spirit. Even the iconic Tube bridge and railings shine with illuminated snowflakes and seasonal sparkle. At first glance, it’s pure magic — but EastEnders fans know appearances can be deceiving.

Christmas Filming Already Underway

Although September still feels like autumn, the show is already filming its big December episodes. EastEnders usually films around ten weeks in advance, and Christmas is the most important time of year on the soap’s calendar.

Bosses have remained tight-lipped about the exact storylines, adding even more suspense. Last year’s flash-forward with The Six murder twist had viewers buzzing for months. This time, the plots are being kept under wraps — which means anything could happen under the glow of those fairy lights.

A Possible Slater Family Reunion?

One of the biggest theories revolves around Zoe Slater. Recently returned to Walford, she is still searching for her missing son. Fans will remember Zoe gave birth to twins in 2006, far away from the Square.

At the time, she was told her daughter had died, and she rejected her son, demanding that he be adopted. But soap watchers are convinced this isn’t the full story. With the twins now 19 years old, many believe they could soon arrive in Walford, sparking an emotional reunion — or an explosive confrontation.

Christmas in Walford: Always More Than Tinsel

For decades, EastEnders has made Christmas synonymous with drama. Families gather, secrets spill, and lives are changed forever. Whether it’s a shocking affair, a brutal betrayal, or even a tragic death, the festive season in Albert Square never passes quietly.

This year’s double Christmas trees and sparkling market lights may set the stage for joy, but fans are bracing themselves for fireworks. With Zoe’s hunt for her children, simmering feuds across Walford, and the soap’s tradition of heartbreak, the festive glow is only a cover for the storm to come.

What’s Next for Viewers?

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC iPlayer at 6am, and on BBC One at 7.30pm. With the Christmas episodes already in production, fans won’t have long to wait before the drama unfolds under the twinkling lights of Albert Square.