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Mary Lou Cruz

Mary Lou worked for the South Florida Sun Sentinel for 21 years. She was a special sections writer in the advertising department for 7 years and worked in the newsroom for 14 years. Before her newspaper career, she worked in the airline and travel industry and has lived in Brazil, Puerto Rico and vacationed in more than 25 countries. Motto: "Learning to live a frugal lifestyle is both an art and a science." She can be reached at marylou@miamionthecheap.com.

If you have a partner and dancing shoes and want to participate in the Que Bacano! Latin Dance Showcase, you will need to register in advance. However, even if you just want to watch on the sidelines and tap your toes under the table, you should still register since seating is limited. Admission is free and …

Read More about Free Latin Dance Showcase, West Palm Beach, Feb. 6 & March 6

Well, this looks like an exciting film from Black Bear Pictures, so you’d better hurry and register to get a free pass because seats are limited and they are first-come, first-served.  “Shelter” (R) When: Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Where: AMC Sunset Place, 5701 Sunset Drive, South Miami Request free pass using this …

Read More about Free screening of ‘Shelter’ in South Miami, Jan. 27

If you’re a fan of watching champion equines compete in jumping and dressage events, then this is the time to visit Wellington and see live events for free! For the 2026 season at Wellington International’s Winter Equestrian Festival, spectators get free general admission Wednesday through Sunday during the main winter season (January-March) during daytime events. …

Read More about Free daytime entry through March at Winter Equestrian Festival, Wellington

The South Florida Fair is a prime attraction packed with family fun and entertainment, with rides, food vendors, exhibits, parades, performers, competitions and so much more. What: South Florida Fair When: Jan. 16 through Feb. 1, 2026 Where: South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33411 Cost: Varies per day; range $15-$20 …

Read More about South Florida Fair ‘Party with the Pirates,’ till Feb. 1

Each week, after regular hours, the Norton Museum of Art presents a new experience, with an eclectic mix of live performances, film screenings, workshops, tours, and more, called Art After Dark. Every Friday there’s something new to do and see, plus a showcase of up-and-coming and established performers. In essence, this after-hours weekly discounted event …

Read More about $10 Art After Dark features something new every Friday, West Palm Beach

Take advantage of this ongoing series of free concerts under the stars, with food trucks and vendors, plus pop-up family events in 2026. The amphitheater at Wellington Town Center has a capacity of 1,500 people. Plan to take portable seats or blankets to enjoy festivities under the stars. Free Food Truck & Music Series: Jan. 29, …

Read More about Free: Weekly Food Truck & Music concerts, Wellington

Delray Beach is hosting a free family movie night in February and March. Take a blanket or chair, grab your favorite snacks, and get ready for a cozy night of laughs, food, and fun under the stars. Movies at The Square Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026: The Lion King Thursday, March 19, 2026: Inside Out Where: Amphitheatre …

Read More about Free: Movies at The Square, Delray Beach, Feb. 11, March 19

Here’s a free family film for kids. Be sure to take your blankets or chairs for a great night of community, connection, and entertainment. Raya and the Last Dragon When: Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 6) Where: Athletic Fields, 226 Cypress Lane, Palm Springs, FL Admission: Free Website Enjoy FREE …

Read More about Free family movie night: ‘Raya and the Last Dragon,’ Palm Springs, Feb. 13

Here’s a chance to see a free advance screening of a new movie: Amazon MGM Studios is releasing a new upcoming romantic comedy film, “Relationship Goals,” starring Kelly Rowland and Cliff “Method Man” Smith. When: Monday, Feb. 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. (91 minutes, PG-13) Where: AMC Sunset Place, 5701 Sunset Drive, South Miami Register for free …

Read More about Free pass to see ‘Relationship Goals,’ in South Miami, Feb. 2

The public is invited to help celebrate the gathering of gentle sea cows that call Florida home at the 10th annual party by the Lake Worth Lagoon. Grab the family and spend the day Mia and friends. Live entertainment, art displays, with activities and lots of fun for kids – plus manatees – are all …

Read More about Free: ManateeFest in West Palm Beach, Feb. 7

This year’s Lantern Festival highlights the energy and symbolism of the Year of the Horse, shining a spotlight on Asian culture and artistry. Enjoy traditional Asian music, a dynamic Lion Dance performance, cultural demonstrations, and a pop-up experience featuring Asian-inspired food. Lunar New Year Lantern Festival, West Palm Beach When: Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, from …

Read More about Free: Lantern Festival, West Palm Beach, Feb. 28

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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