1. Louisiana was officially admitted as a state to the United States on February 14, 1812. This followed a period of time where Louisiana was a Spanish colony before being transferred to French ownership before being sold to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase.

2. On February 14, 1852, a major fire broke out in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The fire destroyed nearly 200 buildings but fortunately resulted in no fatalities. The fire spurred improvements in the city's fire department and fire prevention measures.

3. On Valentine's Day in 1895, the famous governor of Louisiana, Huey P. Long, was born. Long served as governor from 1928 to 1932 and was known for his "Share Our Wealth" program and as being a populist politician who was both loved and hated.

4. In 1979, New Orleans became the first city in the United States to celebrate Valentine's Day as a festival. The festival continues to this day and features parades, concerts, and other events celebrating love and romance.

5. February 14 in Louisiana is also known as Mardi Gras Day, which marks the end of the Carnival season that begins on January 6. Mardi Gras Day features elaborate parades, floats, and costumes in cities such as New Orleans, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge, drawing visitors from around the world.