The historical Boardwalk was the surprise location for Atlantic City's first ever Le Dîner en Blanc (DEB). On June 25th over 2,000 guest helped transform the area from Showboat hotel to beyond Ocean resorts in a sea of white. It was a perfect summer night as onlookers, stopped to ask questions and get a peek at the perfectly adorned tables. Fine china, white tablecloths and intricate table centerpieces could be seen for blocks.
Le Dîner en Blanc was born in Paris over two decades ago, when Francois Pasquier had the idea to gather friends for an impromptu picnic. The requirements were simple: Wear fancy white clothing, enjoy wine and an elegant meal, and finally be open to fun. The location was not revealed until the last minute and the wearing of white clothing is how they identified themselves. The event was such an exciting success that they all agreed to repeat the experience again the following year. Each year, more and more friends started showing up at this “friends only” evening, today Le Dîner en Blanc International which is headquartered in Montreal Canada is celebrated around six continents.
Related: Who Should Attend Le Dîner en Blanc
Located less than one hour from Philly, it is no wonder that the Philadelphia Dîner en Blanc co-hosts Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran decided to host on the iconic boardwalk. Atlantic City has seen an upswing in its culinary scene, attracting world-renowned chefs, nationally recognized restaurants along with the renovations of several hotels. It was only natural that Le Diner en Blanc would want to come take part!
The evening was a perfect representation of what’s great about South Jersey! Guests were treated to an unforgettable experience as they ate delicious food catered by Feast Your Eyes, (ordered ahead of time) enjoyed superb live music from top talent including West Philadelphia Foot Tappers and Ernest Stuart Band who got people on their feet early into the night; DJ Mar kept things spinning later with selections that ranged across genres- everything you could ask for in this kind of celebration!!!
Roaming performances with Eddie Morgan Brass Band, The Gimlet Girls, and Cirque Risque And don't forget the 360 Photobooth, Charmed Face Painting, Photowall & balloon installations which made memories worth remembering.
Standing on the Garden Pier overlooking the ocean was icing on the cake as everyone scrambled to include it as a backdrop to their pictures with the large balloons or the historical steel pier Wheel in the distance.
My favorite part of the event is walking the area, enjoying the beautiful tablescapes, the fancy white outfits and the dancing the night away with friends and strangers who become friends. I don't envy the panel of local judges who were charged with the task of awarding prizes to guests in two categories: “Best Table” and “Most Elegant Attire”.
When is Dîner en Blanc Philly?
Area residents are lucky in that we can experience this amazing event twice. While it was much easier to get an invitation for Atlantic City, I encourage you to still put your name on the list for Philly. In addition keep an eye out in the Facebook group because someone always has a conflict and needs a quick replacement. Philly announced their date, August 18, 2022, at the preview party at the downtown Macy's event.
Many of us, including me as a new planning team member, are very excited about being part of the 10 year celebration. This is one of my favorite events in the city and I love that it falls very close to my wedding anniversary. It is almost like they picked the date with this in mind.
There are lots of guests on where people think it will take place. I don't even know, so don't ask. Registration is happening soon, so keep an eye out for the email and follow me on instagram as I will share details.
You can get more details by visiting the website, https://philadelphia.dinerenblanc.com and I am happy to answer any questions that I can.
