Diner En Blanc 2017: Inside The World's Favorite Secret Dinner Party

Once a year New Yorkers trade in their signature black wardrobes and standoffish attitudes for an all-white dinner party with thousands of strangers - who then become their closest friends. In its seventh year in NYC, Diner en Blanc took over Lincoln Center, seeing ivory-clad attendees rushing to the secret location with a rare whimsical look in their eyes. Armed with tables, chairs, and French-inspired spreads, guests continued the epic tradition by setting up shop and turning the square into the soirée of the season. Needless to say, it's a sight to be seen. 

Though the annual affair was founded in Paris, and has since spread across the world (79 cities in 28 countries, to be exact), there's just something about New York. Co-founder Sandy Safi, who helped launch NYC's first Diner en Blanc, agrees. "There is so much energy in this city. Seeing how much people dedicate themselves to bringing it all together. The amount of decorations... the passion, the dedication to making this an amazing night. [New Yorkers] are really devoted to it because it takes a lot of preparation. They carry tables and chairs, dress up, go through subways! It's organized chaos in the beginning but then they settle in and wow."

Wow indeed. Throughout the evening guests enjoyed performances by jazz pianist Eric Lewis, singers Samantha Jeffreys and Andrea Chinedu Nwoke, and even an amped up show by the Brooklyn United Marching Band. Those who sprung for the pre-made picnic baskets were treated to a curated menu by celebrity chef Todd English. When the sun set and the famous fountain lit up, the only thing left to do was dance the night away.

Click through for a look at this year's event!

[Photo by Eric Vitale Photography]