my wife & i have been going to the french Quarter for 15 years, but haven't been since katrina, don't really know what to expect,
Go now or wait until x-mas???

Either, it depends on when YOU want to go. The FQ is pretty much back to normal and conventions are back in full swing in N.O. so that will give you an idea of the crowds N.O. is easily handling now.

Also, you might want to highlight "Louisiana" in the drop down search box on the upper right to read much more about what's going on in N.O. post-Katrina.

Oops! I guess that should be "scroll down" search box.

It is the same French Quarter that you remember.
The only big difference between now or waiting is the weather.

Good point. So which is better? July or December?

Gosh, I hate to be negative but I have a friend who spent last weekend in NO and said the French Quarter was NOTHING like it has been in the past. He said it was virtually deserted...just 3 street entertainers on Jackson Square, and Pat O'Brien's is only opened for limited times.

A coworker just got back and he said it was fine, just quieter. So basically Saturday night was more like a Monday or Tuesday from the pre-Katrina days. Most things were open, but with shorter hours than usual.

From a weather standpoint, I would choose December over July - just because I don't care for heat and humidity all that much

July is hot and humid, cooler in December, but not cold very often.

Hmmm, Susan, 2 conventions in town too, but most touristy areas are slower the weekend after the 4th. As a local, I love "deserted." The FQ and Uptown remind me of the N.O. of my youth--not crowded, slow pace, everyone friendly and kind. And my young adult children sure find enough (more than enough, says Mom) to do around town. Sorry to hear your friend had such a bad experience, but he/she seems to be the exception of late.

Please see my recent post - you can just click on my name or do a search...

SAnParis,

I couldn't find your report - can you post link here?

I'll top it.