December elseje Sepsiszentgyörgyön
First of December in Sfântu Gheorghe

Summary/Abstract: In this study we used the anthropological method of participant observation in order to document, analyse and interpret the most important Romanian commemorative event of our times, the 1st of December. More concretely, we analysed in depth the example of the event of 2014, held in Sfântu Gheorghe. Due to its geographic situation and historic evolution, the city of Sfântu Gheorghe and its surroundings provide a very special geographical site for this research, in respect of ethnicity and minority-majority relations; hence, this study focuses on a territory which represents a frontier zone in respect of both ethnic and confessional point of view. The detailed analysis of the narratives, discourses, system of symbols and codes of the event of 2014 demonstrates that the local Romanian community has been celebrating this commemorative day with an even growing mediatisation. The elite that organises the event uses the majestic atmosphere of the feast to organize marches and to demonstrate its power and institutions, to model the conceptual aspect of the community and to consolidate its identity. As regarding the means and methods, it does not refrain from instigating interethnic tensions, a quarrel of symbols and other elements – as it is reflected in the scandals regarding plaques, anthems, flags, the appearance of the New Right – all organised around this feast.

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