The buzz on Edmonton’s swankiest and most exclusive pop-up picnic is gaining momentum.
Organizers just announced the second edition of Edmonton’s DĂ®ner en Blanc (dinner in white) is scheduled for Sept. 3 at a secret location.
Dîner en Blanc is ongoing in about 60 cities across the world. In the spirit of tradition, attendees are asked to dress elegantly in white from head-to-toe. Cream and off-white materials are forbidden.
Participants sign up in advance of the event, and carry their own tables, chairs, tablecloth and serviettes – all white of course.
Diners can bring their own gourmet food and wine or order from one of the prepared menu options. Nathin Bye, executive chef at Whyte Avenue’s Ampersand 27, is this year’s food architect.
Although reluctant to release specific menu details, Bye will include meat and vegetarian choices, fresh breads and local cheeses. Carnivores might sample duck and liver pâté or candied salmon and bison sausage. Vegetarians may get a fresh spin on a pasta salad or a mushroom and spinach pastry.
Last year the ĂĽber-trendy picnic attracted more than 1,200 elitist diners at Louise McKinney Park who enjoyed a beautiful view of the Edmonton skyline and the Saskatchewan River. This year the unnamed banquet site will accept up to 1,500 foodies.
Invite-only spaces are allocated on a “loyalty-reward” system. Last year’s diners are given first choice to attend. Each guest can invite one person. The remaining spaces will be allotted through an online draw.
Tradition dictates that organizers keep the location secret until the last minute. However, approved participants will receive notice about the setting the day before the event.
Dîner en Blanc was launched 27 years ago when Francois Pasquier returned to Paris after spending several years abroad. He held a dinner party to reconnect with friends.
However, so many wanted to attend, he asked them to meet at Bois de Boulogne and dress in white so they could easily locate each other. Today, more than 100,000 people worldwide share in the epicurean phenomena.
To register visit edmonton.dinerenblanc.info/.
