Patti Roth

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, …

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 …

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 …

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, …

Hollywood is featuring its annual Party On The J block party on Johnson Street with an international vibe. The event in 2026 is rescheduled to noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, February 22, from 58th to 59th avenues. The event includes live music, food, art, vendors and family-friendly fun. Holly-Go Shuttle Free and inexpensive shuttles are …

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 …

For your Valentine pix, Broward libraries in Pembroke Pines and Fort Lauderdale offer indoor photo opportunities with fancy backdrops. For a DIY shoot, an outdoor sculpture in Dania Beach offers a sweetheart vibe.  The photo ops are free. Library Photo Ops Southwest Regional Library Southwest Regional Library, 954-357-6580, 16835 Sheridan St., Pembroke Pines  33331, is …

Orange Blossom Festival offers vendors, live bands and things to do for kids in Davie. A parade and a petting farm are included in the events. The Orange Blossom Festival  in 2026 is Friday, February 27, Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1, and entry to most events is free. Free Festival at Bamford Park …

For a fresh approach to navigating sights and shopping in Fort Lauderdale, step aboard a free water trolley. The LauderGO Water Trolley ferries guests along a river route to an assortment of  points along the New River, all for free. The Water Trolley service is separate from Water Taxi vessels. Fees apply for Water Taxi. …

Fix flat tires, adjust brakes and do other simple repairs on your bike at DIY repair stations at 7 parks in Weston. The fixit bike repair stations, which are free to access, include an air pump, select tools and a place to suspend the bike so the wheels spin freely. A QR label leads smart phone …

If you’re looking to soak  in the outdoors in South Florida, Fern Forest in north Broward is a lush oasis for nature walks and occasional free astronomy programs with telescopes. Delight in the scenic setting on your own or register for a guided hike. Most events are free or relatively inexpensive. Entry into the natural …