no psychosis at the Arras Christmas market, after the attack in Germany

Friday, December 20, a car drove into passers-by at a Christmas market in Germany, killing at least five people and injuring more than 200 people. In Arras, market visitors are reassured by the security measures taken by the authorities and do not want to give in to psychosis.

Crowds flock to the Arras Christmas market this Saturday 21 December. However, the day before, a black BMW drove into the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany. The provisional toll shows five dead and more than two hundred injured.

When questioned, the visitors have a thought for the victims but do not intend to let fear dictate their daily lives.

This is the case for this family, who intends to take advantage of the last weekend before Christmas.

The mother confides that she thought of the attack in Germany when entering the market, but affirms her desire to have fun with the family: “We're always a little scared, but that doesn't stop me from coming. Otherwise, we no longer live.”

Traders share this opinion. The barriers and security checks at the entrance to the market reassure and allow them to fully enjoy this weekend of festivities, four days before Christmas.

“In reality, I don’t think about these kinds of events”explains this trader in Arras.

This last weekend before Christmas is an opportunity for exhibitors to build relationships with passers-by and share the magic of the holidays.

A passerby concludes: “We must not be afraid, that would give them victory.” The best way to deal with such attacks is to continue to enjoy every moment of life.

Article written with Virginie Demange.