Rain Or Shine: Diner En Blanc Toronto 2017

I’ve said it countless times before, but I truly believe Diner En Blanc brings out the BEST of Toronto. Never has this statement been more true than at this year’s event. With ominous clouds hovering over the city hours before the all-white picnic en masse kicked off, I contemplated whether or not I should attend. But a relentless voice inside my head reminded me how much I love the annual tradition so – aware of the potential chaos ahead – I slipped into a white dress, grabbed my BFF and trekked to the secret location. Rain or shine, the show must go on. That it did and what a spectacular event it was…

On the eve of another horrendous attack (my heart aches for Barcelona) and the incomprehensible news from the US, I witnessed exactly what I needed to restore my faith in humanity at DEB that night: comradery, kindness and unity. Perhaps it’s because I was in a deeply reflective mood to begin with, but everywhere I looked I spotted small gestures of good will that made me feel warm and fuzzy inside; friends holding umbrellas for one another, strangers sheltering wine glasses from the torrential downpour and many more acts of kindness (like helping each other jump over puddles, set up picnic tables and even light the soaking wet sparklers — thanks @dothedaniel for lighting mine!) The entire evening was a team effort which made it all the more special…

From the second attendees arrived at Canoe Landing with their tables, chairs, food and umbrellas in hand, I could tell everyone was determined to have a good time. Rain was not going to ruin this parade…

And so Diner En Blanc Toronto 2017 begun. Hugs in ponchos were shared…

Gourmet meals were devoured (I’m always blown away by the spreads at this event)…

Strangers and good friends clinked glasses of bubbly…

Selfies were snapped…

Quality time was shared…

And there was even some dancing in the rain…

All of the ingredients for a beautiful night… Le sigh, I saw my city with a different lens at DEB this year: one that’s filled with people who love hard, know how to have a good time and are ready to brave any storm together — be it literal or figurative. That’s something we can all be proud of, especially at times like these. So let’s continue the good vibes friends and spread some desperately needed light in this world…

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

I hope you all have a chance to experience Diner En Blanc Toronto (or any of the DEB events around the globe) one day. They are pure magic in my opinion…

A huge thanks to Diner En Blanc Toronto 2017 for hosting us once again. As always, reviews and opinions are our own.