FAQ | Le Diner En Blanc

Frequently asked questions

Chicago FAQ

What time does the event start and end?

Your meeting time on the day of the event may be as early as 4:45pm and, in accordance with city of Chicago noise ordinance laws, the event ends promptly at 10pm when you will pack up your picnic and leave the venue as clean as when you found it – NO trash is to be left behind.

Will parking be available near departure points?

We always do our best to select departure points that have nearby parking, but encourage guests to use public transportation or car services so these parking areas are not overwhelmed and guests can leave the departure points at the correct time to arrive at the event with plenty of time to enjoy.

Is there an specific theme for the event this year?

For the first time in Dîner en Blanc history, there will be a global theme for 2025: Blooming elegance. Please see Facebook/Instagram for the details

Can I bring pets?

It is not recommended to bring a pet as it is an event for adult hoomans only, giving your fur or feather baby some much deserved time away from you to relax. :-) Should, for documented reason, you must be accompanied by your pet, please email [email protected].

What happen if it rains or the weather is bad?

Le Diner en Blanc is a rain or shine event. In case of rain, guests should remember to bring a white or transparent raincoat, poncho and/or umbrella. If public safety becomes an issue (due to thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornados, etc), local Hosts may decide to postpone the event until the following day or cancel in case of severe safety risks.

Are there any age restrictions?

In accordance with City of Chicago laws, all attendees must be 21 or older and must present ID to confirm their age.

How can I carry my table, chairs and the rest of my picnic setup?

We find rollerboard carry-on suitcases are ideal for stacking and bringing your entire picnic and they slide easily under the table, keeping aisles free and open for people to pass through. Folding luggage trolleys work a treat to carry your table and chairs. Note: All of your belongings must fit under your table. Aisles between table rows must be kept clear and open for passage for safety reasons and in accordance with city of Chicago Fire laws. Any trolleys, wagons, etc. that block the aisles may be removed by security.

How can I make sure I will be sitting next to my friends?

The only way to ensure you will be sitting next to your friends is to select the same Departure Point and Table Leader when registering.

Can I buy tickets at the event, or do I need to purchase them in advance?

Tickets need to be purchased in advance. Le Diner en Blanc requires some commitments from attendees as lots need to be planned ahead: attire, food and company. Once you've booked your tickets, you can extend the invitation to up to 10 friends to join you for an unforgettable night of elegance, celebration, and community!

What should I wear?

Every attendee must dress elegantly and entirely in pure white - head to toe. Think chic, sophisticated, and festive! Outfits must be all white, and accessories should also be white or metallic (like silver or gold).
Avoid casual clothing like T-shirts, shorts, or sneakers. Instead, opt for cocktail or fancy attire. Feel free to get creative with hats, headpieces, or stylish accents — just keep everything white!

How do I register to the event?

To register for the event, sign in to your account and click on "Buy Your Tickets." This will take you through the registration process step by step. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to use the chat box for assistance—or reach out to us directly at [email protected].

How can I invite my friends?

After you complete your registration, sign in to your account and click on "Sponsored Friends" on the left-hand menu. From there, you can invite up to 10 friends to join you for an unforgettable evening! Be sure to ask them to choose the same departure location and table leader so you can all sit together.

How can I invite my friends?

Do I need to bring a guest?

This is the core of Le Dîner en Blanc, this unforgettable event is all about sharing, tickets are sold in pairs, i.e. a table for two. So bring a guest to revel in the elegance and celebrate by your side!

Is the event accessible?

We always do our best to select locations that are accessible. Please reach out to us ahead of time if you have specific mobility concerns.

What are the key rules?

• Dress all in white and look your best! Elegance and Originality are key, so have fun with it! Keep your accessories white, silver, or gold.

• Bring a friend! You must be accompanied by a guest (2 people per table).

• Bring your own table, chairs, and picnic basket. Prepare your own beautiful dinner or order a gourmet meal from our catering menu.

• Attend, rain or shine. Le Diner en Blanc will take place!

• Arrive with your Table Leader and follow their instructions. They know what’s happening! Nobody arrives at the site on their own.

• Celebrate French culture with a glass of wine or Champagne. Guests are encouraged to drink responsibly.

• Clean up at the end of the night! The area should be as clean as it was upon arrival, if not cleaner!

Why are there so many rules for an event that is all about spontaneity?

Le Diner en Blanc is not an ordinary event. The evening takes place in a public place that is often very busy and not designed for such an occasion. It must be carefully controlled for everyone’s safety and so that the city will allow us to hold future editions. Everyone plays their part!

Are the membership and tickets transferable?

Memberships and/or tickets are not transferable, according to Diner en Blanc policy.

Are tickets refundable?

Tickets to the event are not refundable or transferable. Catered meals and beverages are likewise not transferrable.

When and how will I find out the location?

This is part of the magic of Diner en Blanc! The location is secret and revealed only upon your arrival at the event.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own gourmet meal.

My guest can no longer attend. What should I do?

You will be able to change the name of your guest up until a week before the event.

What kind of table do I need to bring?

Your table must be square, foldable, easy to carry, and it must measure between 27 and 32 inches or 68 and 81 cm. It does not have to be white, as it will be covered with a white tablecloth. NOTE: We do not rent tables and chairs.

Can I bring my own wine or alcohol?

No. In accordance with city of Chicago alcohol laws, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. If you wish to enjoy some wine or champagne with your meal, it must be pre-ordered and picked up on-site. Any outside alcohol that is seen by security will be confiscated and not returned.

What do I need to bring?

A square folding-table and two white chairs; a white picnic basket and/or bag including a gourmet meal for two, a white tablecloth and cloth-napkins, cutlery, dishware, and glassware; and a garbage bag. Since this is a sustainable event, guests are not permitted to bring one-time or disposable cups and plates. Please note that handy checklists will be available to all guests.

Are tables and chairs provided?

No. Guests are responsible for their own foldable table and chairs.

When is the event taking place this year?

The date for this year’s Dîner en Blanc Chicago is August 21, 2025. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates, tips and more!

Frequently asked questions

General Information

What is Diner en Blanc International?

Diner en Blanc international connects people in communities around the world. We support a network of passionate individuals who want to organize a Diner en Blanc event in their city while respecting the traditions, values, and regulations that make Le Diner en Blanc a globally recognized and protected brand. We offer local hosts the licence to use our trademark, access to a custom city website and social media platforms, and support services from a PR Specialist and a Project Manager free of charge to oversee event production, sponsorships, and guest-management software. Diner en Blanc International grows organically, a little each year, to promote local economies, talent and entertainment, and locally grown and artisanal food.

How many cities have participated in Le Diner en Blanc?

Since its founding in 2012, Diner en Blanc International, together with local hosts in each city, has developed chic picnics in over 120 cities in 40 countries around the world for over 130,000 guests.

How can I bring Le Diner en Blanc to my city?

Organizing a large-scale event like Le Diner en Blanc takes a great deal of commitment and preparation. We generally require a minimum of 6 months to help you organize and execute your event. Diner en Blanc International does not charge local hosts to become part of our network or to use our trademark; however, hosts must accept the responsibilities associated with taking on a large-scale event and commit to respecting the guidelines and specifications intended to preserve the spirit and the values of Le Diner en Blanc. For more information and a link to our application form, please see our page

How can I attend?

Registration for Le Diner en Blanc takes place in 3 phases: Phase 1: Members from the previous year and friends of the organizers Phase 2: Friends "sponsored" by Phase 1 members. Phase 3: People who signed up to the waiting list.

What are the key rules?

• Dress all in white and look your best! Elegance and Originality are key, so have fun with it! Keep your accessories white, silver, or gold. • Bring a friend! You must be accompanied by a guest (2 people per table). • Bring your own table, chairs, and picnic basket. Prepare your own beautiful dinner or order a gourmet meal from our catering menu. • Attend, rain or shine. Le Diner en Blanc will take place! • Arrive with your Table Leader and follow their instructions. They know what’s happening! Nobody arrives at the site on their own. • Celebrate French culture with a glass of wine or Champagne. Guests are encouraged to drink responsibly. • Clean up at the end of the night! The area should be as clean as it was upon arrival, if not cleaner!

Will the event be cancelled or postponed in case of bad weather?

Le Diner en Blanc is a rain or shine event. In case of rain, guests should remember to bring a white or transparent raincoat, poncho and/or umbrella. If public safety becomes an issue (due to thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornados), local Hosts may decide to postpone or cancel the event.

What kind of table do I need to bring?

Your table must be square, foldable, easy to carry, and it must measure between 27 x 32 inches or 68 x 81 cm. It does not have to be white, as it will be covered with a white tablecloth.

What are the cut-off dates for catered meal and beverage purchases?

Bringing your own gourmet picnic is always an option! If you decide to order a catered meal, you will be able to do so on the e-store 5 to 7 days before the event.

What do guests pay?

Each guest pays a participation fee to the organizers in their city, which covers the costs of organizing the event (venue rental, transportation, security, insurance, entertainment, etc.). Guests also pay a membership fee to Diner en Blanc International, which makes them part of the Diner en Blanc network and guarantees them a priority invitation to the next year’s event.

What partnership/sponsorship opportunities exist with Le Diner en Blanc?

Diner en Blanc International prides itself on its partnerships with some of the most exciting and elegant brands; however, this event is, first and foremost, a dinner among friends. Sponsorship opportunities are limited to ensure the quality of the event and to promote its valued elegance, haute cuisine, and refinement. For more information, please contact [email protected]