1. The Battle of Middle Creek: On December 26, 1861, the Battle of Middle Creek took place in Floyd County, Kentucky during the American Civil War. Confederate forces under Brig. Gen. Humphrey Marshall clashed with Union forces under Col. James A. Garfield. The battle resulted in a Union victory and helped to stem the Confederate advance in the region.

2. Birth of Kentucky Fried Chicken: The fast food chain Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) was founded in North Corbin, Kentucky on December 26, 1930. Harland Sanders, better known as Colonel Sanders, began selling fried chicken from a roadside restaurant. The restaurant became so popular that Sanders franchised the business, leading to the creation of one of the world's most recognizable restaurant chains.

3. Statehood Day: December 26 is recognized as Statehood Day in Kentucky, commemorating the day in 1792 when Kentucky became the 15th state to join the Union. This day is celebrated with various events and ceremonies throughout Kentucky.

4. The Mayfield Tornado: On December 26, 2021, an EF3 tornado struck the city of Mayfield, Kentucky, causing widespread damage and numerous fatalities. The tornado was part of a larger outbreak that affected several states in the southern United States.

5. The Kentucky Derby Festival: The Kentucky Derby Festival, a series of events leading up to the famous Kentucky Derby horse race, kicks off on April 26 each year-- but it all starts with the unveiling of the official Kentucky Derby Festival poster on December 26. The poster is designed by a different artist each year and is used to promote the festival and its various events.