Thousands Converge On Pier 26 For Annual 'Diner En Blanc'

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Despite record-breaking heat, they trekked through city streets, dressed in white for 'Diner en Blanc' which translates from French into 'Dinner in White.'

As CBS2's Tracee Carrasco reported, the location of the elaborate, flash mob, picnic remained a secret until guests arrived.

"There's also the surprise element of where is it going to be, and it's something special, it's elegant," Christine Clayton said.

Groups first meet all around Manhattan and then head out to the mystery spot. Previous locations included Bryant Park, Lincoln Center, and last year Rockefeller Park in Battery Park City.

This year's event, the fifth of its kind, was held at Pier 26 along the Hudson River.

"We always look for unique locations throughout the city and this is a location that people don't expect," co-founder Sandy Safi said.

The 5,000 guests of the dinner party bring everything including tables, chairs, center pieces, food, and wine. Each setup is more extravagant than the next.

Photos: Diner En Blanc Pop Up Picnic in NYC

"Basically they build the event with us. We start with an almost clean slate and we see the pieces of the even come together," Safi said.

"I complained for weeks about having to lug furniture, food, and everything, but once everything is set up, that all melts away, and you just enjoy yourself," Nicole Ndzibah said.

Diner en Blanc started in France, but has become a popular New York summer tradition.

"I think the concept of watching all these different groups converged into one spot was just phenomenal to sit there and watch. And just watching the camaraderie, I think everyone is just here to have a good time," Larry Cohn said.

The event has grown to 60 cities around the world, in more than 20 countries. There is already a waiting list of 30,000 people for next year.

For more information on the local Diner en Blanc events, click here.