World of Warcraft's Midsummer Fire Festival begins next week

Blizzard announced the dates for World of Warcraft's hottest season of the year: the Midsummer Fire Festival, which starts next week.

The seasonal event runs June 21 to July 5 and takes place in major Horde and Alliance cities. Players level 20 and above can use the Group Finder to participate in a fight against the Ice Lord Ahune each day, and defeating the creature will net you a Satchel of Chilled Goods containing holiday loot. There are daily quests you can complete during the festival to obtain experience, gold, and a seasonal currency called Burning Blossoms you can use to purchase holiday items.

Speaking of holiday items, there are a number of Summer-themed pets and garb you can earn during the event. Check out the full list over on the Blizzard blog.

In other World of Warcraft news, a survey Blizzard sent out suggests that the company might lower the MMO's level cap, which is currently set at 120. Fans of WoW Classic have cause to be excited too – the closed beta begins May 15.