I had heard about Dîner en Blanc before — a secret picnic where in-the-know guests dress in all white and venture to the secret location with tables, chairs, white tablecloths, picnic baskets, table accessories and food. I had never attended myself — until Philadelphia’s event Aug. 16.

Typically, Dîner en Blanc guests bring and set up everything, only the location and entertainment is provided. Guests set up, dine, drink and dance the night away until the sparkling finish — literally — all in a sea of white-clad attendees. Being a guest of the first Sofitel en Blanc partnership, all I had to do was wear white and enjoy.

We arrived at the Sofitel Philadelphia in Center City at 5:30 p.m. for a Champagne toast and meet-and-greet with fellow guests. I admired everyone’s attention to detail and impressive dress before hopping onto a white Philadelphia Trolley enroute to the secret location.

Diner en Blanc table setting by Sofitel © Angelique Platas

The location became clear once we were within sight of Dilworth Park at City Hall as lines of white wrapped about the block, carrying baskets, chairs and tables to the square. We hopped off the trolley and found our set table with linen napkins, glassware and Sofitel dining menus, then sat back to enjoy the service.

The event is like a big block party where guests enjoy each other’s company, mingle and chat with other tables, take pictures and dance. Dinner arrived in picnic-style boxes and we shared across the floral arrangements and candelabras littering the table. Wine was passed, corks were popped and the music was just getting started. One thing that wasn’t on my mind during the dinner was the inevitable breakdown at the end.

Overall, it’s an incredible event bringing guests together from all over the city. Whether you want to design your own table or opt for the Sofitel’s all-inclusive package at $600 per couple, the exclusive event is a fun departure from your typical night out.