On Saturday, August 27, Dîner en Blanc, the world’s largest secret dinner party returns to Washington, D.C.. The event was originally started in 1988 by François Pasquier in Paris and has quickly become a cultural phenomenon delighting curious spectators and entertaining the lucky attendees who are able to score an invitation to the exclusive event.
Now held in 70 cities worldwide, this will be the District’s third time hosting the event. Past locations have included the inaugural outing held adjacent to National Stadium in Yard’s Park and last year’s location on the grounds of the Carnegie Library in Mount Vernon Square. This year’s dinner promises to be even more spectacular with early estimates indicating that over 3,500 people are slated to attend. Even with the increase in numbers, the pop up party sold out in minutes and there is still an extensive waiting list of people hoping to get in for 2017.
To attend the event, participants must wear white festive party attire, bring their own table and chairs, pack an elegant dinner and transport all of this to a secret location that is revealed minutes before the celebration is to start. There are several meeting spots throughout the Washington metropolitan area, which serve as initial gathering spots before hitting the official destination.
“One of the things I love most about the event is the expression of creativity through attire and table decor. The thought that goes into wardrobe selection and sourcing table decor is so impressive! That along with the preparation and excitement in the weeks leading up to the event is what really sets this event apart from a regular night out on the town,” said Bryer Davis, one of the event co-host.
The theme of the event is truly about elegance and fun. Partygoers will be dressed to the nines in all white attire. (Click here to check out previous years’ fashions.) In addition they are expected to serve their meals on real china and silverware as well as create elaborate tablescapes for an opulent dining experience. And just like the strict white dress code, plastic plates and utensils are forbidden.
The dinner starts with the ceremonial waving of crisp white dinner napkins and culminates with all guests waiving sparklers for the start of the dance party. While the event is invitation only, there is typically an after party open to the public. Non-Dîner en Blanc attendees must still wear white to get in. For more information about Dîner en Blanc D.C., the after party or to join the waiting list for next year visit the organization’s website.
