1. The Battle of Bennington: One of the most significant moments in Vermont history was the Battle of Bennington, which took place on August 16, 1777. However, the events leading up to the battle started on December 26, 1776, when the Continental Army launched a surprise attack on a group of Tories in Newport, Vermont. This attack inspired American General John Stark to lead his troops to victory at Bennington the following year.

2. The Vermont Republic: On December 26, 1777, the Continental Congress officially recognized the Vermont Republic as a separate state, separate from New York and New Hampshire. This recognition helped pave the way for Vermont to eventually become the 14th state in the Union.

3. Norman Rockwell: On December 26, 1894, famed American artist Norman Rockwell was born in New York City. While Rockwell wasn't born in Vermont, he spent the later years of his life in Arlington, Vermont, where he produced some of his most iconic works.

4. The Vermont State House: On December 26, 1857, the Vermont State House had its first official meeting in Montpelier. The building had been under construction for several years and was finally completed in time for the start of the 1858 legislative session.

5. The First Ski Lift: On December 26, 1935, the first chairlift in the world started operating at the ski resort in Vermont. The lift was an innovation that revolutionized skiing and helped make Vermont one of the premier skiing destinations in the country. Today, skiing remains one of the state's top tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world.