Christmas markets are normally one of the most cherished traditions in Germany: wooden stalls, lights, mulled wine and food in almost every city and town. Yet this year, many people are approaching the festive season with mixed feelings. A new nationwide survey shows that while a clear majority still plans to visit at least one market, a significant share of the population is hesitant – and their reasons go well beyond simple fear of attacks.
According to a representative poll conducted by the opinion research institute YouGov on behalf of the German Press Agency (dpa), about one third of people in Germany say they do not intend to visit a Christmas market this year. At the same time, nearly two thirds express concern about possible attacks.
Terror attacks remain a serious worry for many
The survey explicitly asked respondents whether previous attacks in Berlin and Magdeburg make them worry about visiting Christmas markets today. In total, 62 percent said they are worried to some degree:
- 22 percent replied that they are “very” worried,
- another 40 percent said they are “somewhat” worried.
Only around 35 percent stated that they do not have any concerns in this regard when thinking about a stroll through a Christmas market.
These fears do not arise in a vacuum. In December 2016, an Islamist attacker hijacked a truck and drove it into the Christmas market at Berlin’s Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Thirteen people were killed and more than 70 injured. In December 2024, a driver used a rental car to plough into a Christmas market in Magdeburg. Six people died in that attack, including a nine-year-old child, and more than 300 others were injured. Both events continue to shape how many people perceive the risks associated with large public gatherings in the festive season.
Security measures: barriers, patrols and a nationwide knife ban
In response to these experiences, cities and market organisers have tightened security measures over the years. Many larger markets are now surrounded by vehicle barriers at access roads to prevent cars or trucks from entering pedestrian areas at speed. Police patrols and private security services are also a common sight, especially during busy evening hours and on weekends.
A relatively new element is a strict ban on knives at Christmas markets throughout Germany, which has been in force since 2024. The aim is to reduce the risk posed by weapons in densely crowded spaces and to make it easier for security forces to intervene quickly if necessary.
However, the population is divided over whether the current measures are sufficient. When asked, “Do you consider the security arrangements at Christmas markets to be adequate?”,
- 41 percent of respondents answered “yes”,
- 37 percent said “no”,
- the rest were undecided or had no opinion.
So while many people feel reasonably protected, a substantial share remains unconvinced.
High prices deter visitors more than fear itself
The survey also looked at the reasons why people do not plan to visit a Christmas market this season. Here, safety concerns are important – but they are not at the top of the list.
Among those who intend to stay away, the following main reasons were given:
- High prices for food, drinks and goods: 53 percent
- Large crowds and heavy congestion: 50 percent
- Lack of interest in Christmas markets: 36 percent
- Safety concerns related to possible attacks: 32 percent
This means that, for most reluctant visitors, rising costs and the prospect of crowded, noisy spaces weigh more heavily than fears of terrorism. The traditional visit to a Christmas market – once a relatively affordable seasonal treat – has become a noticeably more expensive outing for many households. At the same time, some people simply feel that the markets have become too busy and stressful to enjoy.
Majority still plans to attend, but with more caution
Despite all these concerns, Christmas markets remain deeply rooted in German festive culture. Around 59 percent of those surveyed say they plan to visit at least one market this year. Many likely accept the higher prices as part of the experience, or choose to limit their visit to a shorter time or fewer purchases.
For others, the decision is more complex. Some are willing to go but pay closer attention to their surroundings, avoid peak times or stick to smaller, local markets rather than large, heavily crowded ones in major cities. The combination of visible security measures and personal caution helps them strike a balance between enjoying the festive atmosphere and managing their worries.
A festive season between tradition, cost and security
As the first markets open in the week before Advent – for example in Dortmund on 20 November, on Berlin’s Alexanderplatz on 24 November, in Dresden on 26 November and in Nuremberg on 28 November – Germany is heading into a Christmas season shaped by contrasting moods.
On the one hand, there is the familiar longing for lights, music, food and togetherness in the cold months. On the other, there are rising costs, memories of violent attacks and ongoing debates about security. The new survey suggests that while many people still intend to embrace the tradition, they are doing so more consciously – weighing up personal finances, tolerance for crowds and their own sense of safety before deciding whether, where and how often to visit a Christmas market this year.
