German Christmas markets, a beloved tradition and significant source of tourism revenue, are facing the possibility of cancellation due to escalating security costs. Organizers warn that the financial burden of ensuring safety following recent high-profile attacks may render these events unsustainable.
The Federal Association of City and Town Marketing (BCSD) has highlighted that security expenses have surged by 44% in the past three years, citing attacks in Berlin (2016) and Magdeburg (2024) as key factors. In response to these threats, organizers are now implementing measures like concrete barriers, entry checkpoints, and surveillance, though many rely on subsidies.
With over 75% of markets requiring financial assistance and only 1.6% turning a profit, the future of these markets is under serious threat. The BCSD head, Gerold Leppa, emphasized the need for reliable, nationwide regulations that apply to all levels of government, as the current system places an undue burden on local law enforcement and volunteer organizers.
Federal officials have acknowledged the issue but offered no solution. Christmas markets face “particular risks” because they are freely accessible, an Interior Ministry spokesperson told Handelsblatt last week, adding that their security remains “the responsibility of the states,” not the federal government.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has also told Bild that “we can no longer hold Christmas markets even in smaller towns without a comprehensive security concept,” but maintained that responsibility lies with regional police forces and that his government “cannot provide direct support.”