Far-right Atreju Festival in Rome Mixes Christmas Cheer with Political Displays
December 12, 2025
Leila Cader and friends stumbled on Atreju, a week-long festival in Rome hosted by Brothers of Italy, the far-right party led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The festive scene included mulled wine, Christmas stalls, and an ice-rink. But a striking billboard called the “bullyometer” showed hateful comments from Meloni’s leftwing critics. Notable names like trade union leader Maurizio Landini and musician Brian Molko were featured.
Two billboards contrasted radically: one mocking Meloni’s foes and the other honoring figures the party admires, including an image of US far-right activist Charlie Kirk. The event draws a mix of politicians, priests, magistrates, and celebrities. Past guests include Steve Bannon, Elon Musk, and Rishi Sunak. This year’s line-up features far-right European politicians like Marion Maréchal and George Simion. Meanwhile, former Italian prime ministers Matteo Renzi and Giuseppe Conte also attended.
Roberto Fico, president of the Campania region, said, “Even if we have political differences, it’s important to debate.” Atreju also serves as a stage for Meloni to show her influence, with videos highlighting her meetings with international leaders like Emmanuel Macron and Donald Trump.
Visitors shared mixed reactions: a local couple praised Meloni for economic progress, while chef Enrica Ciardo valued the government’s stance against mafia threats to her restaurant. The festival runs amid criticism of Italy’s civic health, downgraded for stricter protest laws and state surveillance.
Student protests at the event led to a heated exchange with Minister Anna Maria Bernini and police involvement. Press were closely monitored throughout. Political analysts call Atreju "Meloni’s Woodstock," a yearly show of strength and a rare dialogue platform despite faction fights within her party.
The festival ends with a keynote speech from Meloni, underlining its mix of Christmas spirit and hard political edge.
Read More at Theguardian →
Tags:
Atreju Festival
Giorgia Meloni
Brothers Of Italy
Rome
Far-Right Politics
Italy
Comments