World of Warcraft's Feast of Winter Veil: A Lore-Filled Holiday Celebration

World of Warcraft's annual Feast of Winter Veil is much like our own Christmas, complete with festive rewards and new goodies each year. A newly released lore video, a collaboration with PlatinumWoW, delves into the rich history of this beloved in-game event.

From its origins within the Warcraft universe to the infamous kidnappings of Metzen the Reindeer, Winter Veil boasts a long and entertaining history in Azeroth. This in-game holiday mirrors real-world Christmas, offering players special rewards and activities, often including new items acquired through drops, gold, or other means.

PlatinumWoW's insightful narration explores the holiday's roots: the Dwarven myth of Greatfather Winter, a Titan-forged giant who leaves a trail of snow; and the Tauren's traditions of spiritual reflection, renewal, and gratitude to the Earthmother. The video also highlights the rise of Smokeywood Pastures, a Goblin enterprise that has commercialized Winter Veil, reflecting real-world Christmas traditions.

A Look Back at Metzen the Reindeer

No exploration of Winter Veil lore is complete without mentioning Metzen the Reindeer, named after former Warcraft executive creative director Chris Metzen. This unfortunate reindeer has endured three separate kidnappings: by pirates and Dark Iron Dwarves in Classic WoW, and later by the Grinch in the modern game. The video concludes with a humorous nod to Metzen, with the reindeer expressing thanks in Thrall's voice (a fitting tribute, as Thrall is voiced by Chris Metzen).

This isn't PlatinumWoW's first collaboration with Blizzard. Previous projects include lore videos on Nerubians, Vrykul, and the Scourge for Wrath of the Lich King Classic, World Trees and Blackrock Depths for modern WoW, and even guides for events like Season of Discovery and Plunderstorm. Blizzard's recent collaborations also include Taliesin & Evitel's advice for returning Dragonflight players and Hurricane's stunning cinematic trailers for World of Warcraft Classic.

Winter Veil Festivities Continue!

Players can still enjoy the Feast of Winter Veil until January 5th, 2024. This year's highlights include a tamable Dreaming Festive Reindeer for Hunters, new holiday transmogs for all players, and the Grunch pet. Don't forget to check under the tree in Orgrimmar or Stormwind for a special Winter Veil gift—perhaps a surprise like last year's Junior Timekeeper's Racing Belt toy!