We were watching Titanic and the Full Monty and loving Cold Feet and Where The Heart Is on the small screen.
Back on Wearside, we welcomed the opening of the Stadium of Light and said goodbye to Roker Park.
But there was lots more going on as well such as a pool marathon at the Chesters and a big cash boost for a rowing club at South Hylton.
Take a look at our 1997 reminders and see how many of these scenes you remember.
1. End of an era
The scenes at the end of the last game at Roker Park in May 1997. Photo: SE
2. On cue at the Chesters
Putting on a pool marathon at the Chesters Pub. These pool players were staging a pool marathon at the Chesters in 1997. Pictured from the left are Maureen Bullock, Pam Wood, Phyllis Sproat, Sharon Ward and Sarah Jobling. Photo: Sunderland Echo
3. Pictured at the carnival
The Hendon and East End Carnival in July 1997. Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. Taking shape
The new Sunderland crest is featured on one of the new stands as the impressive new Sunderland stadium takes shape in 1997. Photo: se