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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.

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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Oakland Park and Art Fusion Galleries are hosting Oakland Park Art Walk. Entry is free for the event. The Art Walk events in 2026 include: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, February 21. South Florida artists are featured at booths at and around Art Fusion Galleries, 3496 NE 12th Avenue, Oakland Park.   Local restaurants are …

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The art of film is showcased at events presented by Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. The events include local, national and international films, plus discussions, parties and more.  The 2026 festival, in its 40th year, is February 20-28. Tickets for most films are $13, with member tickets discounted to $8. Most of the films will …

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Dance, symphony and vocal performances are among the array of free events at Baily Hall theater in Davie.  For many events, tickets are not required.  Entry is offered while seating is available. Some events require reservations.   Events in 2026  7:30 p.m. February 21 Broward Symphony Orchestra with an emphasis on American pieces  2 p.m. …

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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 …

Read More about Free Tunes ‘n Trucks in Broward with Motown hits & food trucks

The South Florida Amateur Astronomy Association offers telescopes at Fox Observatory in Sunrise for peering into the night sky. Fox Observatory is in Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise 33326.  The facility is usually open Saturdays from about dusk until about 11 p.m, weather permitting, and representatives of South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association …

Read More about Use telescopes for free at Fox Observatory in West Broward

T-Y Park in Hollywood, featuring a lake and lots of shady trees, presents free live performances. Often food trucks are on site for the music events. Entry to T-Y Park is free on week days. Entry fees on weekends and holidays are $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people and $20 per vehicle with …

Read More about Free Jewish folk rock band at TY Park in Hollywood

Hollywood ArtsPark is a delightful venue for free live entertainment. ArtsPark is on Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway. Featured events in  2026 include Spam All Stars  6 p.m. – 10 p.m. February 21 event featuring Dav Julca and Spam All Stars Spam All Stars band offers an innovative blend of Latin, funk, electronic, and improvisational …

Read More about Live bands at free outdoor events in downtown Hollywood, including popular Spam All Stars

Groove to the rhythms of reggae, Afro beats and dancehall at the AfroCarib Festival in Miramar. The festival featuring live performances in 2026 is 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, February 28. General admission tickets are free, with VIP options and prepaid parking at $12.50 available. Even though general admission is free, you still need …

Read More about AfroCarib Festival in Miramar

Entry is free for Rhythm by the River event in Fort Lauderdale, which features live performances, games and food trucks. The Rhythm By The River festival, celebrating local voices, is 2 p.m. Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Esplanade Park on the delightful Riverwalk promenade. Performers and activities include these and others  Luigi Arredondo Sextet, jazz, …

Read More about Rhythm by the River festival in Fort Lauderdale includes performances, games & free entry

It’s a parade! Youth Day Parade in Oakland Park includes not only a parade, but other free festivities, including rides and live entertainment. The 2026 theme is Cartoon Carnival. Costumes are encouraged. Oakland Park Youth Day Parade in 2026 is March 7,  starting at Jacob Pastorius Park, then moving south on Dixie Highway, west on …

Read More about Free entry: Youth Day Parade & Festival in Oakland Park

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