European Christmas markets fortify security measures as terror threats force major operational changes

Key Highlights

• In Germany, spending on security for public events — including Christmas markets — has increased by about 44% over the past three years, according to a new survey by the Federal Association of City and Town Marketing.
• Berlin’s main market launched this season behind concrete barriers, enhanced video surveillance, and an expanded private security presence.
• Several smaller municipalities warn that the added requirements may force them to scale back or cancel markets next year."The requirements have become increasingly stringent," David Russ, head of production at Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt, told Reuters.
• The heightened measures, he said, allow visitors to feel secure: "I can just let go of everything here — I feel safe." Heavily armed police officers can be seen at the Christmas market in Essen, Germany.
• (Roland Weihrauch/picture alliance via ) While many towns receive some public funding to operate holiday markets, smaller municipalities and private organizers often shoulder most of the expense.