I know you’re out celebrating the 4th of July as my handy guide suggested but news doesn’t stop for celebrations.  July 7th is upon us and for Halo fans around the world that means one thing.  Bungie Day.  The tradition of Bungie Day was born in part due to the significance the number 7 has played in all of Bungie’s games over the years, including the Halo series (7 Halo rings, Master Chief is Spartan 117, etc.), and each year the developer makes a point to use this date to treat fans to something special – usually new content, a free download or other surprise.

What’s in store this Monday to kick off July 7th?

This year, Bungie is celebrating this day with the release of the new multiplayer map Cold Storage (inspired by the original map Chill Out found in Halo: Combat Evolved), as well as new gamer pics and a Bungie Day Xbox 360 dashboard theme, all for free on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. The Halo 3 Legendary Map Pack will also drop in price to 600 Microsoft points in honor of the occasion.

The Cold Storage facility was once a vibrant, active research center on Installation 05.  An accidental contamination resulted in an unforeseen outbreak, which compromised the Forerunner center.  Now, emptied and silent, watched only by a local caretaker, the abandoned structure serves as a reminder of how something as powerful as science is ultimately beholden to nature.

Be sure you download the gamerpics and theme on Monday, July 7, because they will be available for one day only!