Richmond's secret white party returns Sept. 13

State of play: Richmond's eighth annual Diner en Blanc will be Saturday, Sept. 13 with the theme "Blooming Elegance," which is meant to embody floral elegance and "joie de vivre," per the news release.

• Per usual, the always-outdoors location is a secret until the day of the event.
• Previous years have taken locals to Monroe Park, Main Street Station and Kanawha Plaza.

How it works: The all-white party, which started in Paris in the '80s, thrives on mystery and a wow-factor.

• Ticketholders flock to the secret setting with everything for a grand feast (BYO tables, chairs, plates, food, drink and decorative table settings. You can also rent the whole set up and pickup at the event for $140).

If you go : Entry tickets (starting at around $47 per person) are available in phases.

• First, members who previously attended can sign up on Thursday.
• Guests and sponsors can follow on Tuesday, Aug. 5.
• Newbies can join a "fan list" and register on Aug. 7.

The bottom line: Diner en Blanc is a gorgeous Richmond spectacle you should try to experience at least once.