Save the Date! Denver to Host Diner en Blanc on June 4th!

 Le Dîner en Blanc, the popular Parisian-inspired pop-up picnic characterized by its famous all-white dress code, will take place in Denver for the first time ever on June 4, 2022. The Mile High is now one of 120 cities across six continents to host this global phenomenon and highly sought-after “secret dinner party”. The event will be held in one of the city’s best-known public spaces, though the exact location is kept a secret until one hour before the event starts.

Le Dîner en Blanc began in Paris in 1988 when François Pasquier wanted to organize a picnic to reconnect with old friends. The concept was simple: "Bring a meal, and bring a new friend." Seeing as his garden was too small to receive all the guests, he told them to convene at a public space and to dress in white, so they could find each other. This friendly gathering became so popular that it grew over time to what is now one of the most pursued culinary events around the world.

In essence, Le Dîner en Blanc promotes friendship, elegance and gallantry.  Over the course of the evening, guests experience the beauty and value of their city’s public spaces by participating in the unexpected. They’ll feel as though they’ve been whisked away on holiday without ever leaving home. 

Heading the inaugural Denver Le Dîner en Blanc are local hosts Lauren Ripko, as well as Michael and Amber Handby – the nightlife entertainment duo who brought Sundown Colorado music festival to Denver just last year. The team will execute this event with its original traditions and concepts while incorporating local touches to make it their own. 

“Le Dîner en Blanc captures the spirit of friendship, glamor, and European elegance,” states Mike Handby. “We love the history and anticipation of Dîner en Blanc events around the world and we are excited to bring a little piece of Europe to Denver and to add some Colorado flair.”

To uphold Le Dîner en Blanc’s tradition, attendees must dress head-to-toe in white and are requested to bring their own portable table, two white chairs, white table linens, tableware, and a gourmet meal.  Originality and creativity in fashion, table setting, and fine food items are encouraged as long as it is stylish and tasteful. Guests are encouraged to look to local businesses for their attire, décor, equipment, and freshly prepared picnics.

“We felt Denver was primed for such a dazzling event as an increase of interest in fine living and fine dining has been noted over the years,” says Lauren Ripko, co-host of Le Dîner en Blanc Denver. “We look forward to paving the way and establishing a long-standing tradition for our city.”

Guests wishing to enjoy some wine or Champagne must reserve online through Le Dîner en Blanc’s e-store. Guests are welcome to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages. For those wishing to pick up their meal onsite, Le Dîner en Blanc has partnered with House & Howell to offer pre-ordered picnic baskets. 

To ensure that the location is kept secret until the last minute, guests meet at an assigned departure location and are escorted by Le Dîner en Blanc volunteers. In order to leave the event location as clean as when they arrived, guests are required to leave with all their belongings, leftovers and litter.

To participate in this first edition, sign up on the waiting list via the official website at  denver.dinerenblanc.com and click on the Register tab.