FAQ | Le Diner En Blanc

Frequently asked questions

Charlotte FAQ

Can I bring a cart or wagon?

Yes, but it must be collapsible and preferably white. Be mindful of size and ease of transport.

When is the event taking place this year?

The date for this year’s Dîner en Blanc - Charlotte is on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates, tips and more!

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!

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

Best and only way is to make sure when picking a Departure Point you also pick the same Table Leader.

Are there any age restrictions?

You must be 21 years old to attend Le Diner en Blanc as there are wine and champagne being consumed.

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), local Hosts may decide to postpone or cancel the event

Can I bring pets?

You are not allowed to bring a pet as it is an event for adults only.

Is there an specific theme fo the event this year?

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

Will parking be available near departure points?

We do our best to select locations that are near parking.

What time does the event start and end?

As guests arrive, they have the opportunity to visit our on-site activations. However, the event begins at 7 pm with our iconic napkin wave and ends at 10 pm.

Do you offer refunds?

According to our local terms and conditions, we do not offer refunds. Guests agree to these terms before registering. This information is printed on guests receipts

How do I get to the event?

You’ll meet at your assigned departure point and travel as a group, either by bus or on foot, guided by your Table Leader.

Can I drive myself or call a rideshare to the secret location?

No. All guests must arrive and depart together from the assigned point to preserve the surprise and elegance.

What time should I arrive at my departure point?

Arrive 15–30 minutes early. Departure times are punctual and cannot be delayed.

What’s the napkin wave?

At the start of the meal, guests wave their white napkins to signal the official beginning of Dîner en Blanc—it's a beloved tradition!

When do we light sparklers?

Near the end of the evening. Follow the Table Leader’s cue. Only provided sparklers are allowed.

Can I smoke or vape at the event?

Smoking and vaping are restricted to designated areas if allowed at all.

Is professional photography or media coverage allowed?

Media access must be pre-approved. Guests can take personal photos, but professional equipment may be restricted unless authorized.

How can I be a sponsor?

To become a sponsor, email the host team at [email protected]

When and how will I find out the location?

That is part of the magic of Diner en Blanc! The location is secret and only revealed moments before the event starts.

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!

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own gourmet meal. Many guests do so and come with their 3-course meal.

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.

Can I bring my own wine or alcohol?

No. In accordance with alcohol laws in North Carolina, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. If you want to enjoy some wine or champagne, it must be pre-ordered through our eStore and picked up on-site.

What size table is required?

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.

Is the event accessible?

Diner en Blanc is a walking event. Most departure points are less than 15 minute walk from the secret locations. We do our best to select locations that are accessible. Please reach out to us ahead of time if you have specific mobility concerns.

Do I need to bring a guest?

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

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.

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!

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?

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. Depending on the city, tables and chairs may be provided.

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]