The buildings where people live and work, factories transformed into autarkic mini-villages, are decorated with hologram-projected lights. These projections sparkle in cool, futuristic tones of blue and green neon, evoking fir trees and cryptocurrency symbols.

The “sharecroppers” offer residents a virtual environment where they can mentally “teleport” to simulated parties, enabling them to escape the monotony of their daily lives for a few hours. Participants' avatars meet in digital winter landscapes, complete with giant fir trees and virtual fireplaces.

Gifts are exchanged in the form of personalized tokens or NFTs (non-fungible tokens). Some offer exclusive “memes” or unique artistic creations. Others, more realistic, offer vouchers for access to privileges within the factory: a day off, an improved meal or even an upgrade for their living space.

However, these exchanges are often tinged with bitterness: many only receive “shitcoins” or NFTs of no real value, reinforcing the economic injustice.

End-of-year meals, once festive and communal, are now held in aseptic refectories where everything is rationed. Menus contain reconstituted dishes made from synthetic proteins or insects, served with 3D food printers.

For the lucky few, crypto bonuses allow them to order an upgraded feast from the factory's in-house store. Luxurious dishes, delivered by drones, then become a symbol of success and jealousy.

Cultural and artistic celebrations

Performances are organized, often in the metaverse, where local artists and AIs collaborate to produce stunning visual spectacles. These works, often broadcast live, help to create a sense of cohesion among the inhabitants.

Some choose to revisit traditions: small clandestine groups sing traditional songs in factory corridors, using instruments cobbled together from recycled materials.

The holidays are also a time for reflection and rebellion. Discussions revolve around the manipulations of traders and the injustices of the system. Some take the opportunity to code messages hidden in tokens or organize actions to boycott certain companies.

In this cold, controlled world, the festive season remains a symbol of human resistance, a time when individuals, despite isolation and oppression, try to rediscover a little warmth and connection. It's a reminder that even in the most dystopian environments, the spirit of celebration and unity persists.

Translated with DeepL.com