Michelle Kaplan

What can you do for fun this weekend without spending a lot of money? Here are our top picks for free and cheap things to do in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and throughout South Florida!

“& Juliet” is making its South Florida premiere as part of the 2025-2026 Broadway in Miami season at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Dec. 30, 2025 through Jan. 4, 2026. The play is a reimagining of the William Shakespeare classic “Romeo & Juliet” that asks the question… what if Juliet went on …

Organizations in South Florida offer free food distribution for families needing help. Some sites provide drive-through pickups, while others offer doorstep deliveries for eligible participants. Eligibility requirements vary among different organizations. Some are open to everyone.  Food distributions are in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach. Often the organizations accept volunteers and donations. This list is …

Festive theme decorated trees and a Hanukkah display are featured at a free Winter Wonderland exhibit in Plantation.  The indoor exhibit at Plantation Historical Museum includes a mini train village, a gift shop and occasional extra festive events. Extra events feature Santa and live entertainment. In 2025 the display with about 40 trees  is open …

With the surf and ocean air offering delightful ambience, live bands offer free entertainment and lively events are featured at Las Olas Oceanside Park in Fort Lauderdale throughout the year. Featured Events Sound Waves The popular Friday Night Sound Waves free concerts are 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. through December. The schedule includes: Dec. 19: …

Bundle up for a sweet giveaway at Krispy Kreme! ‘Tis the season for sweaters of all kinds, but it’s the ugly holiday sweaters that are at the top of the list for fun.  And the popular doughnut shop is celebrating National Ugly Sweater Day with FREE doughnuts.  Image: Krispy Kreme On Dec. 19, 2025, Krispy …

Visitors to the city’s Holiday in Paradise annual celebration can once again enjoy a free Polynesian show at the West Palm Beach waterfront, with a high energy show for all ages. Aloha Islanders Tropical Holiday Spectacular When: Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. Where: Waterfront Commons, NewDay USA Stage on the Waterfront …

Pack a picnic, bring a beach chair, and head to New World Symphony for a free WALLCAST Concert. Thanks to a soaring, 7,000-square-foot-projection wall and surround sound speakers, you’ll be immersed in a live symphonic performance beneath the palm trees and bougainvillea You’re invited, free of charge, to enjoy the sights and sounds of the …

Watch family-friendly films for free outdoors at ArtsPark in Hollywood.  Movies are usually 8 p.m. Fridays, with occasional exceptions. It’s wise to verify the event is on prior to venturing out.  Films include: Friday, December 19: Polar Express  Friday, Jan. 8, 2026: How to Train Your Dragon Friday, Jan. 23: Superman (2025) Friday, Jan. 30: …

Holiday lights and decorations glisten at a display in Pembroke Pines.  The drive-by version is offered Mondays to Thursdays, and the weekends feature a walk in event with entertainment, photo ops, and a fun zone.  Oasis Church in Pembroke Pines hosts Christmas at the Oasis.  In 2025, the display and events are 6:30 p.m. to …

Here’s a holiday treat: Take the kids to a musical stage show to see this traditional tale by Hans Christian Andersen. Players from the Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth bring the story to life. Plus, this inviting 155-seat theatre gives each audience member a close-up view.  THE SNOW QUEEN When: Sunday, Dec 21, 2025: Two …