The globally-renowned Dîner en Blanc in Toronto returns to a sold-out success for a sixth time in the city since 2012.
The all-white dining affair is an exclusive event that is based on membership and invitation only. The unique soirée is a meeting place where diners bring their own picnic materials and break bread in the presence of good company. Featuring fine dinner, drinks and dancing, the event has a long waiting list that never gets fulfilled due to high demand. Once the event concludes, people are already queueing up for next year’s dinner.
As per tradition, the location was not disclosed to the public until mid-afternoon of the event day, as crowds of white-clad patrons amassed around gathering points across the city.
This year’s venue was The Bentway, which was transformed into an upscale dining venue complete with white tablecloths, lanterns, lawn chairs, and floral bouquets. The near-two kilometre stretch under the Gardiner and the adjacent lawn were selected to provide easy access between the dining and dancing areas.
The clouds were gracious enough not to rain down on the parade as the diners enjoyed the most glorious spreads you can think of: Charcuterie and cheeseboards, buckets of seafood, sumptuous cuts of meat, and every type of cocktail under the sun. From the food to the outfits to the sea of waving napkins, picturesque moments were aplenty. There is simply nowhere else in the world where over a thousand people are enjoying each other’s company dressing and dining in all white. At one point in the evening, sparklers were given out and the fires danced in unison to provide a scene that words cannot do justice.
The fun didn’t just stay at the tables, as the lawn transformed into a dance party after dinner proceedings, complete with strobe lights, DJ, and even a bouncy castle. And to think it couldn’t get more picture perfect, there was even a marriage proposal (she said yes!) to cap off the magical evening.
Above all, the Dîner en Blanc is a place where good food is shared among good people, a place where only good vibes are allowed and where anyone is welcome. You just have to wear all white.
Merci, and till next year.
