Bremer Freimarkt Security Concept: A Colorful Fair with Safety Measures in Place

Today, the Freimarkt kicks off with colorful rides and delicious treats. But security at the fair is also a key concern, and various precautions have been taken. While the atmosphere at the Bremer Freimarkt is usually joyful, safety remains on the minds of many visitors. This is reflected in a survey conducted by Radio Bremen's "Meinungsmelder." The non-representative survey revealed that, in addition to rising prices, some people are hesitant to visit the Freimarkt due to safety concerns.

According to the Interior Department, there is no specific threat. However, in light of recent national events, the security concept for the Freimarkt has been updated in cooperation with the Economic Department and the police.

The updated concept includes a ban on knives of all kinds, including pocket knives. This also applies to other weapons, glass bottles, and pyrotechnics. Dogs, bicycles, and e-scooters are also prohibited, as well as jackets representing motorcycle clubs.

Random checks will be conducted by a private security service stationed at the entrances and exits. This service is also responsible for managing the flow of visitors, according to the Interior Department. Visitors are encouraged to leave suitcases and large backpacks at home.

During the Freimarkt, carrying knives, weapons, or potentially dangerous items such as baseball bats or pepper spray is also prohibited in the central train station.

In addition to the private security service, the Bremer police will also be present at the fair, along with so-called "awareness teams." These are specially trained security personnel wearing purple vests, who can be approached for help, for instance, in cases of sexual harassment.

Massive barriers have been placed at the entrances and exits to prevent vehicles from driving into the fairgrounds.

Last year, some areas of the Freimarkt were monitored by cameras. This year, the surveillance has been expanded to cover the entire fairgrounds. The Bremen police have access to the camera footage, allowing them to respond more quickly and precisely in case of incidents, according to the Interior Department.

The fair operators are satisfied with the knife ban and video surveillance. "That's enough for us," says Susanne Keuneke of the Bremen Showmen's Association. "It's important for us to feel secure and to convey that to the public." While no one can guarantee 100% safety, Bremen has made significant progress in terms of security compared to other cities, according to Keuneke.

Comprehensive Safety Measures in Place for Bremer Freimarkt 2024

The colorful and joyful Bremer Freimarkt opens today, offering rides, food, and entertainment. But along with the excitement, security remains a top priority for both visitors and organizers. A survey conducted by Radio Bremen’s “Meinungsmelder” showed that rising prices and safety concerns are deterring some potential visitors.

While the Interior Department has confirmed no immediate threats, recent events across the country have led to an update in the fair’s security plan, devised in collaboration with the Economic Department and local police.

A significant change in this year's plan is the strict ban on knives, including pocket knives, which also extends to other types of weapons, glass containers, and fireworks. Additionally, dogs, bicycles, and e-scooters are not allowed on the premises. Motorcycle club jackets are also banned.

Random checks by private security personnel will be conducted at the entrances and exits, ensuring that visitors comply with these rules. The same security firm will also manage crowd control, and visitors are advised to avoid bringing large bags or suitcases to the event.

During Freimarkt, carrying weapons or dangerous objects such as baseball bats or pepper spray will also be prohibited at the nearby central train station.

In addition to private security, police officers and specialized “awareness teams” wearing purple vests will patrol the grounds. These teams are trained to assist anyone facing harassment or other safety concerns.

Concrete barriers have been installed at entrances to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering the event.

Following last year's partial video monitoring, this year will see full video surveillance across the entire fairground. The Bremen police will have direct access to the video feeds, allowing for faster and more targeted responses to any incidents.

Fair organizers have expressed satisfaction with the updated measures. Susanne Keuneke, a spokesperson for the Bremer Showmen’s Association, stated that the measures are sufficient to ensure safety. While complete security cannot be guaranteed, she emphasized that Bremen has made significant strides in recent years compared to other cities.