1. Virginia became a state - On May 5, 1776, Virginia became a state after the approval of the Virginia Constitution. This made Virginia the first of the thirteen colonies to become a state.

2. Virginia Military Institute founded - On May 5, 1839, the Virginia Military Institute was founded in Lexington, Virginia. The institute is a state-funded military college and is known for its strict discipline and rigorous academic programs.

3. First Memorial Day celebrated - On May 5, 1866, the first Memorial Day was celebrated in Waterloo, Virginia. The day was created to honor fallen soldiers from the Civil War.

4. Virginia Tech shooting - On May 5, 2007, a shooting occurred at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. The shooter killed 32 people and wounded 17 others before committing suicide.

5. Virginia named top state for business - In May 2019, Virginia was named the top state for business by CNBC. The publication cited Virginia's strong economy, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment as reasons for the ranking.