Overview
- In Leverkusen, several processions were canceled at short notice, prompting an open letter from parent representatives who criticized unclear guidance and rising burdens on volunteers.
- City officials state there was no general prohibition and that each organiser made its own call based on safety conditions, with the mayor’s office promising to engage planners for next year.
- In Berlin-Spandau, church-led routes set off from four start points with a request to use LED lights instead of open flames, culminating in gatherings with theatre and campfires.
- Kempen expects roughly 25,000 to 30,000 spectators for its St. Martin parade, with about 2,500 schoolchildren marching, supported by fundraising and preparations that began in August.
- Safety-focused adaptations continue elsewhere, including a sold-out lantern walk for about 800 participants in Wuppertal Zoo and cave festivals in Iserlohn and Ennepetal that allow only electric lanterns.