Security is to be stepped up in Christmas markets and other festive events across Europe. The Foreign Office in UK updated its advice for Austria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Belgium today, saying they can expect extra security in place over the Christmas and New Year period, including at Christmas markets and other major events that might attract large crowds. It urged visitors to remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities. Security was tightened this time last year in cities popular for festive breaks following the Paris terror attacks in November 2015 and the subsequent lockdown in Brussels. The traditional market in Brussels went ahead last Christmas but with reduced hours and additional security measures in place.