The winds abated, the clouds drew back and the rain disappeared as if by magic, to celebrate the return of Le Diner en Blanc for its second year in Newcastle.
The chic Parisian pop-up dinner was a secret until the last minute for the 1200 guests - a 50 per cent increase in numbers from the inaugural 2021 event.
With the requirement being that everyone be in white from head to toe, Novocastrians and visitors alike dressed up to add a touch of elegance to the Foreshore Park harbourside location.
"When I see so many people on the dance floor, all dressed beautifully, it brings such joy to us as the organisers and I know we have achieved," event co-organiser Louise Maher said.
"We are so proud to be able to stage this world-wide event in Newcastle, and showcase to cities such as Paris, New York and London, that our great little city down under can match it with the biggest and the best."
Planning is already underway for Le Diner en Blanc to again be the signature event for Newcastle Food Month 2023.
"We see Le Diner en Blanc growing in Newcastle, particularly in drawing visitors to our city, staying overnight and enjoying other Newcastle Food Month events," Ms Maher said.
"Whilst the fun component is critical on the night, the bigger picture is the economic impact that we can continue to grow, including increased visitation. With food businesses such as Sprout Catering, Pork Ewe Deli and Cakeboi catering for the event, and the family-owned Hunter Valley winery First Creek providing many of the wines, most income that the event generates is kept in our local economy."
