Ballarat secures worldwide dining event Le Dîner en Blanc

Ballarat will become the first regional Victorian city to host a worldwide dining phenomenon that is sweeping the globe. 

Le Dîner en Blanc, touted as the world’s poshest picnic, will come to Ballarat on Saturday 1 April. 

The movement, which involves participants wearing elegant, all-white clothes and dining outside in a large group, started in Paris in 1988 and is now held in more than 120 cities worldwide. 

The event is always held at a secret location, which is only revealed to attendees at the last minute. In Ballarat, the location will also remain a mystery. 

The City of Ballarat was successful in attracting Le Dîner en Blanc to Ballarat as part of the Ballarat Event Strategy Acquisition Program. 

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said he was thrilled to see Ballarat lure another major event, especially one that has a worldwide reputation. 

“We know that Ballarat has become a major destination for food and drink lovers and hosting an event like this is only going to enhance our status as a foodie destination,” he said. 

“It will prove to be another major event on our calendar and will follow hot on the heels of the Ballarat Begonia Festival. 

“I can’t wait to see the crowds of people dressed brilliantly in their white clothes, having a great time - wherever that may be!” 

Sara Walsh, host of Le Dîner en Blanc in Ballarat, said she was thrilled to bring the major event to the city and help boost the local economy. 

“This chic and elegant affair is the perfect opportunity to showcase some of the amazing and talented local producers and the thriving arts and hospitality community that continues to grow in the region,” she said. 

“In addition to Ballarat’s historical significance, there’s so much more that this beautiful city has to offer.” 

There will be limited tickets available to the inaugural event. People who are interested in attending should register to join the waiting list at the Le Dîner en Blanc Ballarat registration website. 

For more information visit the Le Dîner en Blanc website.