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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.

For an interesting twist on nightlife activities, register for evening nature walks at Broward parks.  Some parks occasionally offer night hikes in forests, prairies, on shorelines and other intriguing outdoor spaces. On the tour, you’ll savor distinctive nocturnal sights, scents and sounds of evenings in the wild. It’s a nice idea for a romantic date, …

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For a fun evening out that’s friendly for your wallet, direct yourself to downtown Pompano Beach, where you’ll delight in entertainment, food trucks, and art displays indoors and outdoors as part of Old Town Untapped events. The events are usually 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. the first Fridays of the month, except for summer. Entry …

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Go outside for lunch and delight in the sounds of a live band.  Noon Tunes events in 2026 are noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays in February and March featuring live music at Ward Plaza in Fort Lauderdale. The lunch break entertainment is at 420 SE Sixth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. Bands include: February 4: Big Harvest …

Read More about Noon Tunes features live bands outdoors in Fort Lauderdale & it’s free

For weeknight entertainment, live bands perform outdoors in a shopping and dining district in Coral Springs.  Live music is from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays and entry is free.  The Walk on Wednesdays is at 2750 N. University Drive in Coral Springs. Entertainment schedule: January 21: LiveFeed January 28 Feburary 4: Beverly Lewis and The Mixx …

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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 …

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You can hear your favorite local bands perform at the monthly Sounds at Sundown concerts in Margate. Entry is free. What: Sounds at Sundown Music: 6 p.m. the first Saturday of the month (except July and August) Food trucks: Food for purchase from food trucks starting at 5 p.m.  Where: Margate Sports, 1695 Banks Road, …

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The Florida Renaissance Festival in Deerfield Beach offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a fantasy world  with performers, artisans and activities inspired by another place and time. Discount opportunities are offered. The popular event in 2026 is on weekends from February 7 through March 29 at Quiet Waters Park, 954-357-5100, 401 S. Powerline Road, …

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Whether it’s an emphasis on romance, hanging out with friends, family and your pet, or treating yourself, Valentine’s Day is a perfect occasion to do something special. South Florida offers plenty of things to do, including lots of free live performances and art events.  Some of the Valentine events and date ideas are offered before …

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Dance, food and handicraft vendors, exhibits, fashion shows and art representing India are featured at Namaste Indian Festival in Pompano Beach. The event in 2026 is 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, February 7. Register on the Namaste Indian Festival website for free tickets. Festivities are at Pompano Beach Amphitheater, 1806 NE Sixth Street, Pompano …

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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, …

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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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