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
7. Leeds Lights
Scary Spice dropped into her home city to turn on the lights in 1999. She was left embarrassed after she slipped and nearly fell off the stage. | Bruce Rollinson Photo: Bruce Rollinson
8. Leeds Lights
2000 and A fading popstar known as Billie Piper came third billing after actress Sheree Murphy of Emmerdale and her husband, then-beloved Leeds United star Harry Kewell. | Gary Longbottom Photo: Gary Longbottom
9. Leeds Lights
Vinnie Jones showed a softer side when interviewed by the YEP wearing his carpet slippers in 2001. He also melted hearts when he brought a disabled girl out of the crowd and danced with her on stage. | Simon Hulme Photo: Simon Hulme
10. Leeds Lights
2005 and Leeds City Council announced that years Leeds lights would be turned on by Phill Jupitus and a city replied: Who? | Graham Lindley Photo: Graham Lindley
11. Leeds Lights
2006 and A bumper crowd thanks to a performance from pop kings McFly. The band were joined by actress Gaynor Faye and the late Jane Tomlinson. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
12. Leeds Lights
Beverley Knight - the star booking of 2007 - suddenly pulled out just before the big switch-on after realising shed double booked Leeds with another gig. X-factor heartthrob Shayne Ward stepped in at the last minute. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty