Christmas markets in the north: security systems tightened after attacks!

Christmas markets in the north: security systems tightened after attacks!

In the run-up to Christmas, which is a time of contemplation and joy for many, our Christmas markets are the focus of the security authorities this year. After the terrible attack in Magdeburg on December 20, 2024, in which six people lost their lives and over 330 were injured, the cities of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein feel compelled to massively tighten their security precautions. The incident, in which a perpetrator drove a vehicle into a crowd, has also reignited the discussion about safety at Christmas markets. The trial against the defendant began on November 10, 2025 and is sure to stir emotions.

44 Christmas markets are planned for the upcoming season in Hamburg. The offering is particularly broad in the Mitte district; there are 20 markets here alone. In Schleswig-Holstein, on the other hand, Christmas markets have a tradition in all major cities and on estates. In order to offer people a carefree celebration, forward-looking security concepts must be implemented, says Jochen Kopelke, the federal chairman of the police union (GdP), calling for an adjustment to our security strategy. The new threats mentioned include not only drones that need to be fended off, but also the need to better equip the police so that they can meet the demands of today.

Safety precautions in detail

The specific security measures vary from city to city. In Hamburg, the district authorities take over the permits for the markets, with the police advising the organizers. The markets in the Mitte district are in a comfortable location, where the city bears the costs for the security precautions. The situation is different in other parts of the city, for example, where the organizers have to dig into their own pockets. Although there is no permit requirement for Christmas markets in Kiel, a security concept was launched in collaboration with the police.

The costs of security measures should not be underestimated. The market in Niendorf had to reckon with additional costs of 25,000 euros, while in Lübeck the new access barriers alone cost several hundred thousand euros. However, the president of the regional association of the outpatient industry and the Hamburg showmen, Wilfried Thal, complains about excessive security demands from the authorities. “We have to find a middle ground that allows us to celebrate this tradition without constant fear,” said Thal.

Increased security measures everywhere

In Hamburg and other cities, security measures have already been increased at various locations. This includes the use of more water containers and additional barrier elements that are intended to offer better protection. In Kiel, for example, bollards and big bags were placed for safety, and in Lübeck new access barriers were implemented to ensure the safety of visitors.

Although the costs of security measures are skyrocketing, there have not yet been any cancellations of markets in Hamburg that could be attributed to the costs. Only one organizer in Wandsbek has withdrawn, which further illustrates the concerns about the financial burden on market organizers.

The upcoming Christmas market season shows that safety concepts and ensuring safety are becoming increasingly important alongside celebrating and enjoying the pre-Christmas atmosphere. The citizens' desire to celebrate the festival in a pleasant and carefree environment is the top priority. Despite all the challenges, if the measures are implemented well, the markets could remain a place of joy and togetherness; in keeping with the essence of the Christmas season. As n-tv reports, the social pressure to improve security precautions is enormous, and everyone is hoping for a peaceful and happy holiday season without the streets having to appear protected like Fort Knox n-tv and GdP.