Germany's iconic Christmas markets are now open for the holiday season, but security has taken center stage this year. As millions of visitors are expected to return, authorities and organizers are intensifying measures amid heightened safety concerns following a series of deadly attacks in crowded public spaces across Europe.
The markets, famed for their mulled wine, traditional foods, and medieval charm, remain a cherished winter tradition. More than 3,200 official Christmas markets operate across Germany, generating over 4.5 billion euros in sales last year.
"It's the atmosphere. It's the shopping, the snacks, [I] love the food, it's a lot of fun," said Canadian tourist Ryan Ostrikoff.
"Beautiful Christmas items to look at, and children's toys to look at. Glamor and glitter," German tourist Hannah Zeidler said.
"It's lovely, the lighting and the old feeling of Munich," said a Singaporean tourist.
"A lot of arts and crafts and the warm wine, which is really nice," said American tourist Bob Broocker.
Munich's Christkindlmarkt has roots dating back to the 14th century, making it one of the oldest in Germany and to this day, many of its 130 stalls highlight local items.
"Really regional handicraft-decorated things still run by families who produce them throughout the year, and then they go in December to the Christmas markets and sell them. And this is what makes it really special here," said Benedikt Brandmeier, head of Munich Tourism.
Tourists seize the opportunity to buy unique local gifts for family and friends back home.
"I was showing to my daughter who is in Japan now because she wanted a souvenir from this Christmas market in Munich. It's one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. She wanted the one with the lights on and some angles," said Japanese tourist Setsuko Ito.
But organizers said that the market's operating costs have climbed sharply in 2025, largely due to mandatory security upgrades.
The heightened measures follow several deadly attacks on Christmas markets in recent years, including last year's deadly incident in Magdeburg, where an SUV plowed into crowds, killing six people and injuring more than 330.
The city of Munich announced it will more than double the amount it spends on safety measures this year.
"The security measures are now the most important cost factor. This was not the case some years ago, but still we try to keep the costs as reasonable as possible," said Brandmeier.
New security measures include manned vehicle barriers at all entrances, increased police and security presence, expanded video surveillance, and even anti-drone systems following repeated airspace violations across Europe.
Christmas markets are a cherished tradition across Germany, with nearly every city and small town hosting its own. Restoring a sense of security has now become essential to preserving the magical festive atmosphere these markets evoke
Germany's Munich opens Christmas market with intensifies security measures
Germany's Munich opens Christmas market with intensifies security measures
