German Christmas markets: Age-old traditions with modern-day security

It could be argued that no one brings on the Christmas spirit better than the Germans.

With the smells of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts, sizzling sausages and laughter, local trinkets and festive lights - the country's Christmas markets are a cherished tradition for locals and tourists alike. 

Germany's Christmas markets date back to the late Middle Ages, when merchants began setting up stalls to sell winter necessities. It is said that the oldest is in the East German city of Dresden. Named the Striezelmarkt, after a medieval type of fruitcake, it first opened in 1434 for just one day to sell meat for Christmas meals.

Another very popular market is in the Bavarian city of Nuremberg, known for its opening ceremony by the local Christkind or Christmas angel, played by a young woman from the Nuremberg area. 

Also traditional here is a fiery drink known as a Feuerzangenbowle, mulled wine with a rum-soaked sugar cube that is set on fire and then dipped into the drink.

The roots of Munich's Christkindlmarkt are said to date back to the 14th century – yet it has only been located in the heart of the city's renowned Marienplatz since 1972. However, that doesn't deter millions of people from visiting it every year.

'A very different atmosphere' 

Japanese tourist Setsuko Ito says while her home city Tokyo also has a Christmas market, it's not as big as Munich's.

"The stalls are so different. It's a very different atmosphere," she says. "I love it. I've always wanted to come. It's one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany."

First time German Christmas market visitor Ryan Ostrikoff from Canada tells CGTN he is also very excited to be "soaking in the festive vibe".

"It's great. It's something we don't have back home," he says. "It's the atmosphere. It's the shopping, the snacks – love the food – it's a lot of fun." 

But even local Munich residents Dieter and Iffy make sure not to miss an annual visit. 

"For a Glühwein [mulled wine], Lebkuchen [gingerbread]... There are people from all everywhere," they say. "It's a tradition. The Christkindlmarkt in Munich is like Oktoberfest – one has to come." 

According to the head of tourism for the city of Munich, Benedikt Brandmeier, people are certainly coming. 

"December is one of the strongest tourist months in Munich with about 1.7 million overnight stays from all over the world," he says.

Rising sales – and security 

From their early beginnings centuries ago, Germany's more than 3,000 Christmas markets have evolved into a pillar of the festive season, pulling in roughly 85 million visitors annually and billions of euros for their host communities. 

Last year saw total sales top $4.5 billion, but the costs for running these markets this year have risen – in large part due to increased security measures.

These protections have cranked up in the wake of attacks on Christmas markets across Europe, including last year's tragedy in Magdeburg, where an SUV plowed into the crowds, killing six and injuring more than 330. 

Brandmeier says that while the city is trying to keep the costs for stall owners and visitors reasonable, "the security measures are now the most important cost factor."

The city of Munich announced it is spending 160 percent more on preventative measures, such as manned vehicle barriers at all entrances, increased police and security presence and video surveillance. Some cities in Germany have even introduced anti-drone measures after repeated airspace breaches in Europe. 

While many customers CGTN spoke to appreciated these new safety measures, they won't let fear dampen their festive spirit. 

"Everyone's more aware of what's going on, but they're still enjoying their life and participating," say American tourists Brandon and Lauren Napp. "Just be smart, be cautious of what you're doing." 

"I've seen the police presence here, but it's not something I worry about and does not take away from the charm at all," says Canadian Ryan Ostrikoff. 

The hope for Munich – and Germany's many other festive markets – is that the public still turn up in droves to happily spend their time… and money.