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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.

The 2026 Summer in the City free concert series in Boca Raton features tribute bands on select Fridays from June 12 to Aug. 7, 2026. Shows start at 8 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.) with free admission. The lineup includes tributes to Billy Joel, Eagles, Bob Marley, and it culminates with the annual Battle of …

Read More about Free: ‘Summer in the City’ concerts in Mizner Park, June 12-Aug. 7

When school’s out it’s playtime in South Florida. Here’s a list of some of the free and cheap things for families to do to have fun during the month of June, 2026, in Palm Beach County. Northwood Film Festival When: Wednesday, June 1 through Monday, June 7, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. Where: Various …

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Juneteenth marks the emancipation of those who were enslaved in the United States. It is about learning new ways to promote economic empowerment in the Black community and sharing ideas to address racial disparities. It is not only a time for commemorating the end of slavery and honoring Black history and its rich heritage, but it is …

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The aim is to “Nurture What’s Wild” at Busch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jupiter. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; closed on major holidays. Where: Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, 17855 Rocky Pines Road, Jupiter Admission is by donation, with no minimum; whatever the person or family is able to donate. All educational programs …

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The Spady Museum is hosting an eclectic series of movies and videos that will be shown from June 11 to July 25, 2026, and the public is invited. The Black Movie Experience (BMX) for lovers of cultural documentaries returns this summer. Snacks available for purchase. Free admission. RSVP required — Limited Space. Location: Creative Art …

Read More about Free with RSVP: Black Movie Experience by Spady Museum, June 11-July 25

The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum offers Free Fun Saturdays on the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring free admission for all, themed arts & crafts, and family activities. Located at 71 N. Federal Highway, the events often include scavenger hunts, face painting, and special workshops. RSVP to reseerve …

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Not only are these seasonal events a chance to relax and have some good, old-fashioned block-party-style fun, but they are also a free, family-friendly event with live music, interactive activities, food and beverage offerings, plus special incentives to help support local businesses.   Rock The Plaza Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., …

Read More about Free: Rock the Plaza, Boynton Beach, June 25

If you’re looking for a way to kick off your weekend in Palm Beach County, this weekly Food Trucks and Music & the Summer Concert Series – plus Lakesie Market – at the Wellington Amphitheater has you covered. Location: Wellington Amphitheater, and Town Center Promenade, 12100 Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington events calendar Food Truck & Music, …

Read More about Free concert & Lakeside Market at Wellington Amphitheater, June 11

This Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21, 2026, Mounts Botanical Garden invites families to celebrate Dad during Classic Rides & Cool Vibes, a family-friendly outing featuring a showcase of classic and vintage automobiles, a Great Lawn cookout, live DJ entertainment, and lawn games in the Garden. Designed as a multi-generational way to spend the day together …

Read More about Free entry for dads on Father’s Day with Car Show & Cookout at Mounts Botanical Garden

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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