European Christmas markets are opening this year under unprecedented security measures, as officials in Germany, France, Austria, and other countries respond to heightened terror threats. In Germany, security spending for public events has surged, with Berlin's main market now shielded by concrete barriers, expanded surveillance, and a larger private security presence. Smaller towns warn that the rising costs may force them to scale back or cancel future markets, and local leaders are urging federal governments to share more of the financial burden.

The increased precautions follow recent attacks and intelligence warnings, prompting cities across Europe to deploy additional officers, install new screening points, and, in some cases, cancel events altogether. In France, authorities have classified Christmas markets as high-risk, leading to the cancellation of the New Year's Eve concert on the Champs-Élysées. Meanwhile, Austria and the Czech Republic have reinforced their markets with round-the-clock monitoring and physical barriers, while some smaller events have been called off due to unaffordable security requirements.

Experts and local officials argue that the current approach is unsustainable, calling for more aggressive strategies to address the root causes of extremism. Despite the challenges, most markets remain open, drawing crowds who must now navigate stricter security to enjoy the holiday tradition.