1. Louisiana Marks the Anniversary of its Statehood: December 17, 1812, marks the anniversary of Louisiana becoming the 18th state in the United States. The state's nickname is 'The Pelican State,' which refers to the brown pelican, Louisiana's official state bird.

2. The Battle of Lake Ponchartrain: The Battle of Lake Pontchartrain took place on December 17, 1699, between the British and the French over territory. The British took control of the area, and it was later returned to the French in the Treaty of Paris, which ended the French and Indian War in 1763.

3. Sugar Bowl Classic: The Sugar Bowl Classic, one of college football's most prestigious games, takes place on December 17. The game has been held annually since 1935 and takes place in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana.

4. LeJeune's Bakery Opened: LeJeune's Bakery officially opened its doors on December 17, 1884, in Lafayette, Louisiana. It quickly gained national recognition for its custom decorated cakes and bakery items.

5. World Record Alligator Caught: An alligator measuring 19 feet, 2 inches was caught in the swamps of Louisiana on December 17, 2011, setting a new world record. The alligator weighed 1,011.5 pounds and was caught by four alligator hunters who had to use a tractor to move it out of the swamps.