Diner en Blanc, which was launched in Paris more than 20 years ago, is now held across five continents. It was introduced to Canberra in 2013 as part of the Enlighten festival, and ran in both 2013 and 2014. In 2014 it was rained out and forced to move indoors to the Canberra Centre. It didn't go ahead in 2015 after the ACT government pulled its funding. New organisers Antoine and Rachel Bessis, who have run the Sydney version of the event for six years, have reactivated the Canberra picnic for 2018.

Held at a secret location (guests only find out about where they will be picnicking hours beforehand), guests have to BYO almost everything - tables, chairs, linen tablecloth, napkins, cutlery, crockery and table decorations. Then there's the food - guests are expected to bring a minimum three course meal to dine on.

"We ask people not to bring takeaway food. It's about making an effort to display the gourmet food you've prepared and share it with friends," Mr Bessis said.

The only thing you can't bring is alcohol - the venue is licensed for the event and you pre-order and pay for wine only via the website, which will be available to collect on the night.

And everything has to be white - from your linen and tablewear, to your clothing and shoes, although, "there's a little bit of tolerance for silver and gold accessories."

Tickets are $58 per person, which are available to purchase in pairs. which includes access to the event and transportation with buses leaving hubs in Russell, Gungahlin, Kingston, Macquarie, Manuka, Phillip, Bruce and the city. Register at canberra.dinerenblanc.com.