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Patti Roth

Patti Roth, the editor of Fort Lauderdale on the Cheap, scouts out state and national deals, discounts and coupons for our readers, finding the real deals and presenting them in an easy-to-read format. A veteran newspaper and magazine writer and a longtime South Florida resident, she has written for The Miami Herald, The Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida Travel and Life, E Environmental Magazine, Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy, US Architecture and Earth911.com. Send your cheap tips to her at info@fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com.

The picturesque New River in Fort Lauderdale is the scene of a lively event featuring thousands of floating rubber ducks and opportunities to win exciting prizes. Duck Fest Derby in 2026 is 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.  Saturday, April 18, at Esplanade Park, 400 SW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale. The event, which supports organizations that …

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Library branches in Broward occasionally feature free entertaining and events including live performances, yoga, and festivals.  Some events are for kids and families. Others are aimed at adults. At plenty of library branches, parking is free. Featured events in 2026 Pinwheel Festival at library in Davie The Pinwheel Festival and Resource Fair is 10 a.m. …

Read More about Free Pinwheel Festival and Resource Fair in Davie focuses on protecting youth

Dance, symphony and vocal performances are among the array of free events at Baily Hall theater in Davie.  For many events, tickets are not required.  Entry is offered while seating is available. Some events require reservations.   Events in 2026  7:30 p.m. February 21 Broward Symphony Orchestra with an emphasis on American pieces  2 p.m. …

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The waterpark at T.Y. Park in Hollywood, Castaway Island, offers opportunities for discounts and occasional extra events. Water playground and pool at T.Y. Park The waterpark at T.Y. Park includes a swim lagoon pool, wading pool and a water playground with interactive features and water slides.  In 2026, it’s open: March 22 – May 31 …

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Save your appetite.   Tamarac Food and Wine Festival in 2026 is 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday, April 17, and free entry is offered.  The event features food demonstrations and entertainment. Food items and wine tastings are available for purchase from food trucks and other vendors. VIP tickets are $85.  Entertainment features recording artist Busy …

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Rainy days, frosty days and hot days in South Florida offer an opportunity to focus on indoor fun. Be a tourist in your in your town and savor fresh sights, attractions and things to do. If you’re on a budget, various venues offer free or inexpensive entry, and some offer deals. It’s a good idea …

Read More about Indoor events and places to go when it’s wet & rainy

While lots of parks in South Florida are relatively flat, Vista View Park in Davie is distinctive for its relatively tall terrain, with parts about 65 feet above sea level. Entry to Vista View  is free on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the fee is $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people or $20 …

Read More about Vista View Park in Davie offers outdoor fitness equipment & free weekday entry

Enhance a walk in the park with a story along the way. Waters Edge Park in Tamarac features a story trail. Story trails, also referred to as story walks, are outdoor exhibits featuring pages from a storybook displayed along a path. It’s a free activity for families with kids — and a great way to …

Read More about Waters Edge Park in Tamarac includes a book walk, fitness & water playground & entry is free

Davie Jazz Festival features free entry.  The Jazz Festival in 2026 is 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, April 11, and registration online is requested. VIP tickets are $90.56 with fee and tax. Parking is usually $5. Please return to this feature for information on parking fees.  The event is at Bergeron Rodeo, 4201 Rodeo …

Read More about Davie Jazz Festival features a variety of talent & entry is free

Popular Jazz Brunch events offer an afternoon of free outdoor entertainment along scenic Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale. The events are usually 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on first Sundays, with performers at different points along Riverwalk and Esplanade Park, 400 SW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale. Jazz Brunch If you’d like, bring your own picnic or …

Read More about Free live bands and vendors at Jazz Brunch on Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk

Living on the CheapSouth Florida on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.

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