From global phenomenon to most sought after ‘secret,’ Dîner en Blanc takes hold in a Philadelphia public space for the first time this summer. This très chic picnic, imported from Paris, is part mystery tour, part pop-up feast and part je ne sais quoi. On Thursday, August 23, 2012, culinary and culture enthusiasts dressed in white will converge upon a secret locale for an unforgettable evening of elegance, beauty and magic. For parents with little ones at home, this romantic event presents itself as a perfect date night and truly unforgettable night on the town.

The initial waiting list for the Philadelphia edition of this world-wide viral event is now open at http://philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info. In mid-July event registration will open to members of the waiting list. At that time, all waiting list members will receive notification to register themselves and a guest, as well as select a meeting location for the day of the event. Registrants who are too busy to pack their own picnics will also be given the option of pre-ordering a gourmet meal from the event’s caterer, Garces Catering. This option is helpful for parents who are on the go with little time on their hands.

Dressed in white, participants then converge upon their designated meeting spots with tables, chairs, non-disposal supplies, great food and fine wine. From here, participants are led by their Table Hosts to the secret location the 1,000+ guests have been anticipating for months.

Dîner en Blanc in Paris, France

Over the course of the evening, the diners enhance the function and value of a Philadelphia space by participating in the unexpected. Beyond the spectacle and elegance of the dinner itself, guests are brought together from diverse backgrounds by a love of beauty and good taste. And several hours, when it is time to leave, diners fold up their tables and chairs, pack their crystal and dinnerware, gather all their debris and head into the night, with no sign of their elegant revelry left behind.

Organizers take every precaution to ensure that there are no disruptions from car and pedestrian traffic. Although, it isn’t uncommon for the event to attract looks of astonishment from passersby at the scene unfolding before them.

The number of slots available for this first year are limited. Registration takes place on a first come, first served basis. Dîner en Blanc is BYOB and therefore all participants must be at least 21 years old. The fee for this event is only $50 per couple! For more information on Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia visit http://dinerenblancphiladelphia.wordpress.com.