September 13, 2012

Back in August when I received multiple emails and viewed a slew of Facebook posts about Le Diner en Blanc (DEB), I ignored them. To be fair — I don’t speak French. However, when the emails kept coming, I figured it was time to take notice. That’s when I got on the interwebs and did a quick google search. And this is what I found…

1.) I was not getting spammed. 2.) This whole “dinner in white” thing was born 24 years ago in France by François Pasquier and his friends.

Le Diner en Blanc is a gathering of thousands who take over a public space for the night to share in sophisticated small talk, wine & cheese snobbery, and a recollection of court society. Apparently, it’s truly a magical event.

The first American DEB was in NYC last summer. Due to the success of that event, they’ve decided to launch 15 more cities this year, and – to no surprise - our fair city earned a nod. No being picked last in high school gym class here — QUEEN CITY REPRESENT!

Picnic checklist for Saturday

So anyway, this picnic extravanganza is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 15. The location isn’t disclosed until the last minute, but if I had to venture a guess my money is on Washington Park, the Belle of the 2012 summer ball.

Thoughts to ponder for those attending DEB:

*It is still a fashion fas paux to wear white after Labor Day, so you will be judged.

*Speaking of being judged, the most elegant/creatively attired couples - as determined by four local judges – have a chance to earn prizes like a trip to Antigua and dinner at the Palm Court. (Clearly all prizes are not created equal.)

*Since beer and liquor are not allowed there’s no need to harken the phrase, “beer before liquor never been… well, you know.”

*Sparklers will burn your fingers if you touch the sparkling part. I learned this the hard way at a fourth of July Riverbend concert. Granted I was a kid, but you will be in a champagne stupor, so your mind may be in a similarly impulsive state.

In conclusion – and listen closely here – if you are one of the 1100 peeps who has already secured a SOLD OUT ticket, don’t forget to tag #ispycincy on your Instagram pics.

We want to see how magical this event truly is. Really, we just want to know who stains their white pants.

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