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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.

Rather than pick a restaurant, dine on selections from a variety of establishments in Oakland Park. Taste of Oakland Park in 2026 is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, April 17, and tickets are required. Tickets are $20 in advance at $25 at the gate, if any are still available. It’s an outdoor event at Pastorius …

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Register online to take part in free Healthy Kids Day events with slides, games and wellness demonstrations. Healthy Kids Day events in 2026 are 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at a variety of participating YMCAs in Broward and Dade. They include: Greater Hollywood YMCA 3161 Taft St., Hollywood Hallandale Beach YMCA 501 …

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For folks who like friendly outdoor events featuring food trucks, artisan vendors, and interesting wares to purchase, Equality Park After Dark in Broward is a free event. Equality Park After Dark events with handmade and vintage items in 2026 are usually  6 p.m. to 9 p.m. select third Thursdays, with free parking. The venue is …

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LitLive in Fort Lauderdale offers panel discussions with authors  representing different genres of books, book sales and book signings. LitLive in 2026 is 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 17 and entry is free.  It’s at Broward Main Library, 100 South Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. Parking is usually about $3 an hour.  The event is presented by …

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Vintage fire truck. History of pirates display. In addition to a variety of exhibits, Plantation Historical Museum offers occasional entertainment and activities like trivia events. The museum usually is open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with occasional exceptions. Donations are accepted. It’s wise to verify it’s open the day …

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Live entertainment and food trucks are offered for the Earth Day event in Plantation.  Earth Day in Plantation in 2026 is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18, with free entry. The Earth Day fest includes educational booths, kids activity area, and food trucks. A trash to treasure event is featured.  The festival is …

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Sunrise is presenting an outdoor event with art activities for kids and adults, entertainment and art exhibits.  World Art Day in 2026 is  p.m. to 8 p.m. April 18. The event includes:  art exhibit  Paint & Sip for adults Youth Art Zone with hands-on projects  entertainment  The venue is Village Art Plaza, which is at …

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If you’re thinking about going out for dinner, perhaps you’ll venture to a park. Food truck fare is featured at Volunteer Park in Plantation. Food trucks are at the park 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, and the events usually include live entertainment or a DJ, activities and games for youngsters and local artisan vendors …

Read More about Dine outdoors with food trucks, vendors, & line dancing at Volunteer Park

If you’re interested in upgrading your outdoor irrigation system, perhaps you’ll qualify for a rebate of about $200 to $600. Different factors determine eligibility for Broward residents, including Where you reside, use eligibility map your existing irrigation is operational your existing irrigation uses metered city water If you’re eligible,  apply online prior to performing any …

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It’s free to play outdoor Bingo at a park in Sunrise. Participants receive a game packet for about nine games, while supplies last.  The events in 2026 are usually third Sundays, and entry is free. Games are at 3 p.m. and participation is limited. The event includes entertainment and prizes. The venue is Village Art …

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Woofing Waters Dog Park within Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach offers water-spritzing features for dogs. It’s a fun venue for water-loving pets and people who adore their dogs. Fees are $5 per day for up to 3 dogs in a family. On weekends and holidays, other fees for entry to Quiet Waters Park apply.  …

Read More about Woofing Waters in Deerfield Beach is for the dogs

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