Offenbach strengthens security precautions for large celebrations!

Offenbach strengthens security precautions for large celebrations!

In Offenbach, the city administration is striking a new tone in the security strategy for large events. Due to increased requirements following the terrorist attack in Magdeburg, the guidelines for event management were revised. The city is planning to purchase its own vehicle stoppers to significantly increase safety at festivals. In May 2025, the Hessian Interior Minister Roman Poseck (CDU) set clear guidelines that now affect the organization and implementation of events.

There is a particular focus on six major events that have been classified in the highest security category: These include the Christmas market, Offenbach Week, the Main Bank Festival, the Festival of Lights, the Main Matsuri Festival and the Cultural Festival of Nations. Events where more than 5,000 visitors are expected require professional access protection solutions.

Security costs and challenges

The financial burden caused by security concepts presents many event organizers with major challenges. For example, the costs for the security concept for the Main Matsuri Festival amount to around 2,500 euros, while the required access protection with bollards can cost an impressive 35,000 euros. These high costs can be extremely burdensome, especially for clubs and small businesses.

However, the city of Offenbach plans to procure the access barriers itself in the future and make them available to event organizers free of charge. Costs would only have to be borne for construction, dismantling and personnel. This measure could significantly reduce the financial burden on organizers, even if it is still unclear whether their own systems will already have to be used for the upcoming Christmas market.

Tradition and modern security requirements

Particular attention is also paid to the Festival of Lights, which combines tradition and modern safety requirements. The organizers strive to preserve the contemplative atmosphere despite strict security precautions. Interested associations and entrepreneurs need support with legal protection in order to achieve a positive feeling when the event is approved.

The exchange between the authorities and the organizers ensures that all legally applicable requirements are taken into account. The Festival of Lights symbolizes not only a festive tradition, but also adaptation to the current, increasing security needs.

In this context, it is important to emphasize that security measures should not be viewed in isolation. Municipalities have a responsibility to continually examine and further develop safety aspects. Mechanisms such as the formation of interdepartmental working groups and the provision of orientation frameworks promote the planning and approval of events as well as the follow-up to continuously improve security standards. These are essential to meet the increasing demands in the event industry and to ensure the well-being of visitors.

Although the pressure on organizers is growing, it remains crucial to master the balancing act between security and the traditional celebration. We can only hope that Offenbach is on the right track with its new strategies in order to continue to offer unforgettable experiences in the future while never losing sight of safety.

For further information about the planned security measures in Offenbach and their implementation, visit the articles from op online, bbvs-werner and in North Rhine-Westphalia.