We are a family of four adults and have never been. How is the weather during this time? Are the regular sites open? Is it worth the trip in December?

We went one year during the Christmas season. It was a fun trip. The weather will be better than the summer heat which can be stifling. The crowds will be down as there are few conventions that time of the year. Some places will have special Noel rates. I would not hesitate to go for it.

Pre-Katrina, this was out favorite time to go. Smaller crowds, better hotel/restaurant availability, everyone in holiday spirit.

On the weather, best to check right before you go. One year it approached 80 and had to spend a couple hours finding a store that sold shorts, and one year it got down in lower 30s at night. Neither of these are likely, but they did happen to us.

Last year I went around New Years' and the temperatures ranged from about 50 degrees to 74 degrees. Some days were lovely, even with a T-shirt; even the colder ones were nice for strolling properly dressed.

Be aware that prices really skyrocket as New Years' approaches, as people want to be close to the party. One place I considered jumped from $70/night to $150/night from Dec. 28th to 29th for the same room!

I had a blast & plenty was open the days we were there....great place to be around that time of year.

Best wishes, DAN

Thanks all for the encouragement. I think we will do this. Now for suggestions to 'must-sees and dos? Any thoughts?

It is a crap shoot for the weather. It could be 80 degrees, and it could be 60 degrees.

Where are you going to stay? The Hotel Monteleone is beautiful during Christmas.

Christmas in NOLA is lovely. Must-see:

www.celebrationintheoaks.com