Safe through Advent: Police warn of theft and fraud!

Safe through Advent: Police warn of theft and fraud!

For many people, Advent is one of the most beautiful times of the year, but it also brings with it safety risks. In Germany, police presence is increased during the Christmas period, particularly around Christmas markets and busy shopping areas. As klick-kaernten.at reports, this is a measure to prevent crimes and offer citizens quick help if needed. Police officers are available on site as contact persons.

The number of pickpocketing and fraud increases, especially during the Christmas market season. Perpetrators take advantage of the crowd and often work in groups to distract their victims, for example by bumping into them or asking questions. The police provide important tips for crime prevention, such as carrying money, cards and documents in locked inner pockets. It is advisable to only take a small amount of cash with you and to divide valuables into several bags. In addition, bags and backpacks should be carried closed on the body and never left unattended.

Stay alert during Advent

The police are appealing to citizens to be attentive and responsible during the Advent season. If you try to distract yourself, you should remain vigilant and, in the event of theft, immediately call 133 or file a report. There will also be increased alcohol controls around Christmas markets to ensure safety. Many people underestimate the fact that residual alcohol often remains in the system for a long time the morning after and it is therefore important to act responsibly.

In several German cities, such as Munich, the Advent season features numerous Christmas markets that attract visitors. In Munich, the season begins with the Christmas market at Marienplatz, which is open from November 24th to December 24th, 2025. According to munich.travel, visitors can expect a traditional Bavarian ambience as well as the largest nativity scene market in Germany, workshops for children and live music.

Diverse Christmas markets in Munich

Other important markets in Munich include:

• Viktualienmarkt: 21. November 2025 bis 5. Januar 2026, mit einem Angebot an Speisen und Getränken unter festlichem Lichterschmuck.
• Eiszauber am Karlsplatz-Stachus: 21. November 2025 bis 11. Februar 2026, mit Bayerns größter mobiler Eisbahn und thematischen Schlittschuh-Events.
• Weihnachtsdorf in der Residenz: 17. bis 22. Dezember 2025, mit Handwerksworkshops und Puppentheater.
• Tollwood Winterfestival: 25. November bis 23. Dezember 2025, mit einem Fokus auf Bio-Lebensmitteln, Kunst und freien Veranstaltungen.
• Mulled Wine Festival in Bogenhausen: 13. November 2025 bis 11. Januar 2026, wo eine Vielzahl von Glühweinen und Aktivitäten für Kinder angeboten wird.

These markets showcase a variety of festive offerings and contribute significantly to the festive mood in the city. From the classic Christmas market to special themed markets, such as the “Pink Christmas” for the LGBTIQ* community, numerous visitors are attracted.

Advent in Munich also offers the opportunity to explore the region's cultural and culinary treasures, with safety always being the top priority.