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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.

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 …

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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 …

Read More about Rebates for upgrading irrigation in eligible Broward residential yards

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.  …

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For folks who sign up for the free Family rewards program at Ikea, participating restaurants in the home goods stores offer deals. Some deals require the Family rewards ID, others do not.  Ikea restaurant deals include falafel entree is $4.99 while promotion is offered  Kids eat free Wednesdays March 30  and in April with purchase …

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If you and your pals like to ponder such intriguing facts as the number of toes on a sloth while sipping beer or nibbling on appetizers, several restaurants and bars in Broward offer trivia night events. Play alone or  round up friends and form a team. Most trivia night events are free to play while patronizing the …

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For folks who adore hanging out with furry friends, some festivals and events in Broward are designed for people and pets.  Often the events include wonderful pets available for adoption.  Pet events in 2026 include  Doggy Fest  Dogs with talent, vendors, and pooches for adoption are featured at Doggy Fest at Tarpon River Brewing in …

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Foreign films are offered monthly in Deerfield Beach, presented by Deerfield Beach Historical Society. Admission is $10, free for society members. The international films often include refreshments related to the nation where the film was produced. Donations are appreciated. International Film Night is usually 7 p.m. the third Friday of the month at the Deerfield …

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Topeekeegee-Yugnee Park in Hollywood – or TY Park, as it’s known – is popular for a variety of outdoor activities. South Floridians love it because it’s a great venue for walking, running or skating on a shady path around a lake lined with oaks. It’s a venue for occasional festivals and live  entertainment. T.Y. Park …

Read More about TY Park in Hollywood offers walking, jogging and bike paths with lake and oak trees

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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The Orchid and Garden Festival at Bonnet House in Broward features Hula dancers and other entertainment, lectures about plants, and garden art. Orchids, tropical plants and other greenery are on display and for sale.  The Orchid Festival in 2026 is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12, and tickets are …

Read More about Orchid Festival offers free entry for 12 and younger

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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