I live about an hour-and-a-half from New Orleans, and offer these few words:
-- If you're going to party, you'll have fun.
-- The cops take public urination very serious.
-- Watch yourself in the French Quarter at night. Being from NYC, I'm pretty sure you'll be fine, as I would imagine you know how to take care of yourself.
-- Yes, bring an umbrella. There's no real pattern of weather, as such. But, with this type of humid climate, you never know.
-- The humidity is thick. Be prepared to dress accordingly.
-- Watch who and how you get you drinks. Rufie-spikes have been known to happen.
Other than that, and, as I don't know what you are going for, that's all I have.
Are you bringing Rob with you?