You’d think only the French could pull off a civilized 1,000-person picnic … outdoors … with everyone clad in white … and leave no trace behind.

Turns out our fair city is getting its chance to bat with le big guns: Diner en Blanc is coming (well, the American version at least).

On August 27, at 7 p.m., rain or shine, 1,000 people will show up at a location disclosed a mere hour before. They will wear white from head to toe and carry tables for two, white tablecloths, white plastic trash bags, and food. Some might take flowers; others, candles. One of those people could be you.

Starting Monday at noon, you can register for your spot on the event’s website. Invitations (each includes a plus-one) arrive via email, along with a code of conduct for the evening. If you don’t get one, you’ll be added to the wait-list.

After table setup and napkin twirling (signaling the start of the meal), there’s dinner and dancing to be had. By 10:30 p.m., no evidence of Diner en Blanc will exist.

Except, of course, in your memories.

Register online at dinerenblancchicago.com.

Photo: Artie* / Flickr