Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia is set to return this summer on Thursday, August 22 for another edition in the City of Brotherly Love. The official date was revealed during the event’s Preview Party on Tuesday, June 11 at The Bourse Food Hall. The eighth annual event is set to host 6,000 guests, which means Philadelphia will reclaim its 2017 title of largest Dîner en Blanc in the U.S. this year!
During the preview party, more than 600 guests had the opportunity to taste samples from Feast Your Eyes, who displayed items from this year’s Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia catering meals and cheese board options. In honor of the eighth year, a raffle for eight free registrations were given away to this year’s event. The drawing encouraged participants to purchase from the Bourse Food Hall vendors and raffle ticket purchases that benefited Broad Street Ministry.
Back again, the table decorating contest was a hit with the theme, “Philadelphia’s Festivals and Outdoor Celebrations.” The Judge’s Choice winner was “Bastille Day at Eastern State Penitentiary” by Danielle Milbourne. This French holiday-inspired table was fabulous, complete with Marie Antoinette’s head rotating on a cake stand. Voted on fellow attendees, the People’s Choice winner was “Roots Picnic” by Sharon Johnson. Johnson has been a Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia volunteer since the inaugural year of 2012. Her table had Questlove’s famed cheesesteaks and signature popcorn seasoning, which is available at Williams Sonoma.
For on-the-spot table inspiration, Petit Jardin showcased flower offerings that were perfect for the event. Bohemia House Designs and The Green Goldfish Gallery had one-of-a-kind decor accents to add to your table. For style inspiration, there was an expanded selection of retailers on hand to assist with your Dîner en Blanc look. They included Touché Accessories (hats, fascinators, gloves, and accessories) and Stella and Dot (jewelry). Several vendors for the dapper gentleman were also in attendance, including Hats in the Belfry and the Tie Bar. They brought fashionable bow ties, neckties, suspenders, and other accessories.
During the event, $1,000 was raised for the Broad Street Ministry through a raffle. This is the second consecutive year Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia has supported the organization. Proceeds have been raised through raffles and auctions, and they will continue through registration and the actual event.
Even more, Preview Party guests enjoyed specials from participating vendors at The Bourse, including: Scoop DeVille, Bronze Table, TAPS Fill Station, Chocodiem, Prescription Chicken, and more. In addition, Sofitel Philadelphia discussed details on the official after party, as well as hotel packages available.
With the 2019 date finally announced, the wait list is officially open! Don’t miss your chance at a memorable evening filled with surprise and sophistication, dining and dancing, music and more! Thousands of guests are expected to descend upon an undisclosed public space, revealed only moments before the event begins.
To join the waitlist for this year’s Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia, interested parties can visit the website to add their name. The waitlist does not guarantee a spot to Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia. However, it does ensure that all who sign up will be notified when Phase 3 goes on sale in early summer. Last year’s registered members will automatically receive notice of registration going on sale in Phase 1. Bonne chance!
For the latest updates and information, visit the Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia website. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
