1. Nebraska State Fair: On August 17, 2018, the Nebraska State Fair kicked off in Grand Island and ran for 11 days. The fair attracted over 327,000 visitors and featured a wide variety of exhibits, concerts, carnival rides, and food vendors.

2. Nebraska Statehood: August 17, 1864, marks the day when Nebraska became the 37th state in the United States. This happened after President Abraham Lincoln signed the law that established Nebraska as a territory in 1854. The state's motto is "Equality before the law".

3. Nebraska Huskers: On August 17, 2009, the Nebraska Huskers football team played their first practice game with Bo Pelini as head coach. The team went on to have a successful season, finishing with a 10-4 record and a win in the Gator Bowl.

4. Nebraska Tornadoes: August 17, 1915, marked the date when a devastating tornado hit Omaha, Nebraska. The storm, which carried winds of up to 150 mph, caused extensive damage to downtown buildings and homes, resulting in 10 deaths and over 200 injuries.

5. Nebraska Aviation: On August 17, 1928, Lincoln Municipal Airport officially opened. The facility was designed to support military aviation and served as an air depot during World War II. Today, Lincoln Municipal Airport serves as a commercial airport for the state capital and surrounding areas.