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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.

Fresh air. Live music. Food trucks. Pack a blanket. Entry for Tunes ‘N Trucks in Sunrise is free.  Tunes ‘N Trucks outdoor events in Sunrise offer free concerts and dining options from your favorite food trucks. The popular series runs October through June and rotates through Sunrise parks.  Live music is at 7 p.m. and …

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Funk or reggae. Motown or jazz.  Fort Lauderdale hosts occasional Carter Park Jamz concerts featuring a live band and food vendors.  Events 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in 2026 include: May 15:  Kedash Untouchable Band September 18 October 16 Venue: Carter Park, 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 33311 Bring your own blankets, chairs & …

Read More about Free entry for Jamz event at park in Fort Lauderdale featuring live bands

Old Town in Pompano Beach is the venue for free Backyard Jam events featuring local and regional bands. The events are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. select third Fridays and entry is free. Entertainment  includes: February 20. Acoustic Fingers March 20. Revibe April 17. Spider Cherry    May 15. Joey Calderaio June 19. No event because …

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Events showcasing sleek, sporty vehicles are popular in South Florida.  Many auto shows & exhibits are free for spectators. If you’re displaying vehicles, you may nab discounts on registration fees if you register early. Prior to venturing out, it’s wise to phone or refer to social pages to verify event is on. Supercar Saturdays Supercars, …

Read More about Supercar Saturdays with vintage vehicles and exotics, entry is free

The Fort Lauderdale Air Show features exciting aerial entertainment over the ocean. The event in 2026 featuring U.S. Air Force jets flying in formation, parachute jumping and other high-flying performances  is 12 p.m. Saturday, May 9, and Sunday, May 10, at Fort Lauderdale beach. Entry to designated paid locations is offered for a fee, and usually …

Read More about Air Show in Fort Lauderdale offers discounts for premium watch venues

Shop for fresh produce, prepared foods, vintage treasures, art, decor and other items from South Florida vendors, farmers and artisans at the many farmers’ markets and vendor fairs in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. The South Florida farmers markets and vendor fairs often include opportunities for extra fun and entertainment like yoga, live music, …

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Kids work with their hands putting together fun projects at free interactive workshops offered in South Florida at participating Home Depot and Lowe’s stores. At the workshops, youngsters build a toy truck, a photo holder, or other item. Parents or others are invited to work with them. It’s a good idea to register online, especially …

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Pools, water parks and water playgrounds in Broward offer refreshing fun. Some venues, especially municipal pools, offer entry without spending a wad of money.    You can find splash pads with free entry, pools and water parks that don’t cost much, and even some water parks that offer discounts in the afternoons. If you’re looking …

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Set your sights for an adventure in the South Florida wilderness. Perhaps you’ll navigate a shady path through a lush forest. Or perch yourself on a riverbank where herons are wading in the water and turtles are poking their heads out. Tune in to the visual displays, scents and sounds of the outdoor environment. Some …

Read More about Get away from it all at these South Florida nature spots

If you’d like entertainment and activities  with your shopping and dining excursions, Dania Pointe plaza in Dania Beach offers free events for kids and adults. Dania Pointe is a popular plaza with trendy shops, restaurants, Dania Improv, Puttshack and Regal theaters.  Free events & activities at Dania Pointe include: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. May …

Read More about Free vendor fairs & fitness events at Dania Pointe

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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