Bavaria's carnival jesters kick off the short season at 11:11 today

Mark the time: 11:11. On 11 November, that is the moment when carnival fans in Bavaria officially open their session, the stretch of the year devoted to parties, costumes and a bit of organised silliness.

In Germany, the date has long been the traditional starting gun for the carnival season. Bavarian jesters, known locally as Narren, are using it to launch what is described as a short session this year.

So if you notice people in colourful hats or full costumes today, or hear a few extra drumbeats and jokes, you are not imagining it. The foolish season has started.

Fasching, as carnival is called in Bavaria, is one of the region's best-loved traditions. Whether you take part in every parade or prefer to watch from the sidelines, the countdown to the fun has begun.

Punctuality, for once, is part of the joke: be there at 11:11.