The big switch on in the city centre has seen its fair share of drama over the years. These switch-on photos down the decades are sure to spark memories - good and bad. LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Leeds Lights
1986: Joe Sierra, a native American, was flown from America to turn on the lights partly thanks to a YEP spearheaded by YEP journalist and columnist John Thorpe. Quite why, no one is entirely sure.
2. Leeds Lights
1989: When Mickey Mouse pulled out Danny La Rue stepped in and then pulled out when council leaders refused to let him drag himself up as Margaret Thatcher. Melanie Hill, aka Aveline in TV comedy Bread, filled the gap.
3. Leeds Lights
1993: Noel Edmonds arrived with Mr Blobby and was counting down to turning the lights on when it came to the organisers attention that, by accident, the illuminations had already been accidentally lit. Photo: Justin Lloyd
4. Leeds Lights
1994: Magician Paul Daniels may have been the household name pressing the button but it was boyband Bad Boys Inc who caused a stir when their appearance saw 10 girls in the audience instantly faint. Photo: Mel Hulme
5. Leeds Lights
1995: Little and Large topped the bill & also, taking third billing (behind Right said Fred), were a certain PJ & Duncan who later became the millionaire kings of Saturday night TV, Ant and Dec.
6. Leeds Lights
1999: Scary Spice dropped into her home city to turn on the lights. Was left embarrassed after she slipped and nearly fell off the stage. Photo: Bruce Rollinson