Christmas market start in Prenzlau: dispute escalates, police quickly on site!

Christmas market start in Prenzlau: dispute escalates, police quickly on site!

An unpleasant incident occurred on the opening day of the Prenzlau Christmas market, which opened its doors today, November 30, 2025. An argument broke out between several people at the popular “Breakdancer” ride, which resulted in a physical altercation. First Police Chief Inspector Ronny Sonnenburg provides valuable information. According to the latest reports from Northern Courier Two people were injured - a young woman and a young man. Both received outpatient help on site and were then discharged home.

The reasons for the dispute are still unclear at this point. However, the police have already created a description of a suspect and the criminal police have investigated. Witnesses to the incident are asked to come forward. What is particularly noteworthy is that the police were at the scene within four minutes of the alarm at 7:07 p.m., where no knives or weapon-like objects were found.

Overview of security measures

At a time when safety precautions at Christmas markets are taken particularly seriously, the city of Prenzlau is well prepared. The Christmas market, which is open until December 14th, can rely on a coordinated security concept between the city and the police. This is not only intended to ensure that market operations run smoothly, but also ensure accessibility for rescue workers. However, as Mayor Hendrik Sommer explains, completely sealing off the market area with fixed barriers or control gates is not financially or organizationally feasible.

In the context of the general security situation, what happened in Prenzlau is a reminder that even traditional celebrations are not without risks. In Germany there is loud ZDF There are an estimated 3,250 larger Christmas markets, which together attract around 170 million visitors. As the number of events increases, so does the pressure to strengthen security precautions, especially after the tragic incidents of recent years.

Safety standards are changing

Security precautions at Christmas markets are increasingly being criticized and in focus throughout Germany. WDR reports on the high costs for security measures, which were re-examined last year and optimized in various places. In cities like Dortmund, for example, vehicle barriers have been installed to prevent unauthorized access. These measures require not only a one-off investment, but also regular financial support from the city, which poses additional challenges for the organizers.

The Christmas markets, which have come into focus in recent years due to numerous attacks, need increased security measures. For example, after an attack in Magdeburg in 2024, extensive security precautions were taken, which were also followed by examples in other cities. In this context, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for cross-city security standards to ensure a uniform level.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the events at the Prenzlau Christmas market will develop and what further measures might be necessary to reconcile safety and a cheerful atmosphere. In the joy of the illuminated stands and the sweet roasted almonds, such incidents must not get out of hand. After all, the Advent season should be one thing above all: a place of encounter and joy.