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Strasbourg’s 455th Christmas Market Opens Under Tight Security

Real-time drones and about 1,000 officers are deployed daily to manage flows as the city prepares for near-record attendance.

Overview

  • The market runs from November 26 to December 24 with more than 300 wooden chalets open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Access to the historic center is controlled during opening hours, with one-way pedestrian routes on weekends, tram service maintained, and 15,000 park-and-ride spaces available.
  • Authorities cite a persistent terrorist threat and are using live drone surveillance along with police, gendarmes, CRS, firefighters and Red Cross volunteers.
  • Mayor Jeanne Barseghian says the season represents roughly 20–50% of annual sales for some merchants, with a “sapin solidaire” providing gifts for 300 disadvantaged children.
  • Events are spread across nine neighborhoods and the Marché Off marks its 10th year, as opening night drew large crowds for the 30-meter tree lighting and operations face an early test with visiting English football supporters.