Holiday Fair in Rome Highlights Political Tensions of Italy’s Right

In Rome’s historic Castel Sant’Angelo, families flocked to the Atreju winter fair, a festive event organized by the far-right Brothers of Italy party, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Running for nine days, the festival features a Christmas skating rink, dazzling lights, and a variety of holiday attractions, presenting a cheerful facade amid underlying political themes.

The event, which has transformed from a small gathering of activists into a significant political showcase, attracted a diverse crowd, including global figures such as Elon Musk and former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This year’s festival, held in the gardens of Castel Sant’Angelo, offers a blend of holiday cheer and political messaging, reflecting the party’s growing influence in Italy.

Many attendees viewed the fair as a family-friendly outing. Ilaria D’Ambrosio, a 46-year-old resident of Tuscany, expressed her satisfaction with Meloni’s governance, stating, “Italy is improving a little bit. We see a little light at the end of the tunnel.” As families enjoyed the festive atmosphere, the event subtly highlighted the political strength of the right.

Despite the absence of visible Brothers of Italy flags, the monument’s backdrop featured the phrase “You’ve become strong Atreju,” reinforcing the political undertones. While some attendees, like Mario Trupo, a 63-year-old local, expressed skepticism about the political class, others embraced the joyous spirit of the fair.

Meloni is expected to close the festival on its final day, with notable guests including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and French hard-right lawmaker Marion Marechal. Previous speakers at the event have included Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Argentine President Javier Milei.

Atreju’s Evolution and Cultural Significance

The Atreju festival originated from a meeting organized by Meloni in 1998 when she was national coordinator for the youth division of the National Alliance, a precursor to Brothers of Italy. The event’s name is derived from the protagonist of “The Neverending Story,” a novel that resonates with Italy’s right-wing culture. As Meloni’s party ascended to become the most popular in the 2022 elections, Atreju shifted from a September to a December event, capitalizing on the holiday season to attract larger crowds.

While some attendees focused solely on the festive offerings, others engaged with the political narratives displayed throughout the fair. A cultural exhibit showcased figures deemed heroic by the right, including Charlie Kirk, an American activist known for his controversial views, and Pier Paolo Pasolini, a renowned filmmaker and poet associated with leftist ideals despite his complex background.

In a departure from traditional political rhetoric, a segment of the fair featured a wall titled “hate words of the left,” displaying quotes from opposition leaders that criticized Meloni. This controversial display aimed to frame the political discourse in the context of perceived attacks on the ruling party.

As the fair continued, the presence of a Father Christmas figure served as a reminder of the event’s primary purpose: to entertain families. “Santa Claus does not vote. Santa Claus is here for the enjoyment of the children,” he remarked, encapsulating the blend of holiday spirit and political undertones that defined this year’s Atreju fair.

In summary, the Atreju festival not only highlights the festive season in Rome but also serves as a platform for Italy’s far-right political landscape, merging family-friendly activities with underlying political messages. The event’s evolution reflects the changing dynamics of Italian politics, where celebrations and ideology intersect in a uniquely engaging way.