Patti Roth

If you like a selection of free and inexpensive things to do, Broward offers a variety of events that likely fit your fancy. Lively festivals and other events are ideal for frugal excursions with family, friends, and yourself. February includes the Orange Blossom Festival and Parade, Butterfly Festival, Black History Month exhibits and festivals, Valentine’s Day, …

Rock out in Weston. The town offers occasional WestonNights free events with live bands at Weston Regional Park. If you want a snack, food trucks are usually at the events. Outdoor events in 2025 include: 7 p.m. Saturday, November 15, features Dancing Queen performing Disco and other favorites, information is online. Pack a picnic or …

Food demonstrations for kids and families, live entertainment and food trucks are featured at Picnic in the Park at Las Olas Oceanside Park in Fort Lauderdale. Picnic in the Park in 2026 is 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, January 25, and entry is free. Artisan vendors are included at the event, which also includes …

Treat yourself to live concerts at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale. Several are free.  If you’d like, you may make a donation. Free performances in 2026 include: 4 p.m. Sunday, January 25 Astralis Chamber Ensemble Venue First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-6200, is at 401 Southeast 15th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, 33301. Sign up for …

Festival organizers, libraries and galleries in Broward offer engaging events, live entertainment & exhibits focusing on Black History. Lots of events, performances and exhibits are featured in February  for Black History Month.  Plenty of the events are free. There are also Black History Month events in Palm Beach County and Black History Month events in Miami-Dade, …

Organizations in South Florida offer free food distribution for families needing help. Some sites provide drive-through pickups, while others offer doorstep deliveries for eligible participants. Eligibility requirements vary among different organizations. Some are open to everyone.  Food distributions are in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach. Often the organizations accept volunteers and donations. This list is …

Valentine’s Day is for love. Including love for fluffy pets.  For decked out dogs and their humans, Galleria Fort Lauderdale is featuring a doggie fashion show and adoption event 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, February 14 and entry is free for participants and spectators.  The Fashion Show features prizes for Best Dog Walk, Best …

Interactive and exciting, Ignite Broward features immersive light, sound and projection art displays in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood and Dania Beach. The events and displays are free. Ignite Broward in 2026 is February 13-22 at different venues. The displays feature the work of local, national  and  international artists and designers using impressive technology for 3D projection …

Tours, hands-on art activities and artists painting live are featured at the Avenue of the Arts Festival in Fort Lauderdale. The event, nicknamed AOTA Fest, focuses on art, education and youth enrichment. Watch artists painting murals live. Events are free.  Events January 21-25 in 2026 include: Free mural tours, reservations recommended, information is online. 6 …

Eligible apparel, household items and other goods are typically half-price on Wednesdays at participating Salvation Army Family Stores in Broward. The deal is valid for lots of items at the thrift stores including shoes, purses and other goods, except furniture. Participating stores offer other discounts, such as a discount 0f 50% on yellow  items, except …

For a price break on a fun activity in Broward, roller skating is $12 on Wednesdays in  Davie. The price includes skate rentals. The $12 deal is offered 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Galaxy Skateway.  The regular price is usually about  $15-$20 with skate rentals. Recommendation: Phone first to ensure the venue is …