Dîner en blanc 2009

picture from ParisDailyPhoto

I've wanted to visit France for 4 years (missed my senior year exchange trip in high school) and I may be going next year as a chaperon to my brother's high school trip because they want to get some French speakers (I took French for 12 years, but haven't had a lesson in 4)... but I won't count my eggs before they're hatched. Even if I do go with my brother, I'd still like to plan a separate trip alone and REALLY explore and absorb Paris.

One of the events I want to participate in most is Diner en Blanc. From Cnn's iReport.com:

10,000 Parisians participated Thursday evening in an annual summer ritual, the "Diner en Blanc" ("White Dinner"), where they take over a major landmark dressed completely in white.

Carefully orchestrated planning results in everyone arriving at a secret location (this year was the famous Place Concorde) at a specified time. They proceed to set up tables and chairs, light candles and pop champagne corks -- all within 10 minutes !! Onlookers and tourists are amazed by the spectacle.

Participants then enjoy a picnic dinner, light sparklers, and dance until 12:30 am. As quickly as it all started, everyone packs their belongings and trash. Nothing is left behind.

The event website is: www.whitedinner.fr

Sounds like an elaborate, extended flash mob, no? Or something a Parisan Improv Everywhere group would dream up.

Potential Look Inspirations: