Several hours before the festivities officially kicked off, costumed revelers had already gathered in the main Carnival centers, Cologne, Mainz and Düsseldorf on Thursday.

Many workers across the Rhine region unofficially have the day off as the high-point of what locals call "the fifth season" is celebrated. Despite wet weather being forecast, tens of thousands of party-goers were expected in the various city centers.

Steeped in tradition

In Cologne, festivities kicked off at the old market square with music acts and speakers performing throughout the day. The city's famous street parade takes place next Monday.

On Thursday, women often cut off men's ties and, thereby symbolically take over control of their cities for the day. In the Bonn suburb of Beuel women traditionally "storm" the city hall at midday.

The week-long festival takes place each year in the last week before Lent, which then traditionally marks a period of fasting and repentance amongst Catholics in Germany and throughout the world.

al/pfd (dpa, DAPD)