Last week we joined over 2,500 people dressed in white for an elegant pop-up picnic in Philadelphia. Dîner en Blanc is a magical, glamorous, and elegant affair, held annually by invitation only. What began in Paris 25 years ago has now spread worldwide, delighting all in attendance. One of the most thrilling aspects of the event is an intensely guarded secret location, which is revealed upon arriving at the designated meeting point, dressed to impress! In our groups case, we took the subway together, and as we emerged from the tunnel, we could see people gathering on the JFK bridge in front of the iconic 30th Street Station. To the dismay of those traveling home from work, we all shrieked with giddy excitement as we realized what was about to unfold. The main thoroughfare had been shut down, awaiting our revelry!
Everything needed for the formal picnic arrives (and departs) via you and yours, so thoughtful and light packing is a must. Since this was our first year, we kept things simple with plain white china, fresh hydrangea, and a few pieces from my vintage milk glass collection. I wish I could claim that amazing feast above as ours…our table mates went all out! We picked up our food upon arrival, having ordered a catered meal. It was amazing, and saved us the trouble of carrying the food, in addition to all the accoutrement we already had to bring. It’s quite a feat but well worth the effort!
After dinner was over we lit our sparklers in unison, to signify that the dancing/partying portion of the evening had commenced! We took a walk along the bridge over the Schuylkill River, making our way up to the front to dance (a DJ followed the band that played during dinner). Amidst a sea of white attire and smiling faces, we danced the night away. Even though it’s a dream for any francophile, you don’t have to be one to appreciate the magic of the event…Mr. Fleurishing was quite dazzled by it all as well. Philadelphia provided a spectacular backdrop, and we saw our city through a new lens.
