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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 public is invited to enjoy the festivities and get in on the fun at this event. Find out what a “Wife-carrying contest” is! Members of the Finnish-American community in Palm Beach County gets together once a year to celebrate their homeland, with lots of music, food and family fun; and everyone is welcome to …

Read More about Celebrate Midnight Sun Festival, Lake Worth, Feb. 27-March 1

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

Take advantage of this ongoing series of free concerts under the stars, with food trucks and vendors, plus pop-up family events in 2026. Food Truck & Music, plus Lakeside Market When: Thursday, from 5 to 9 p.m.; concert at 6:30 p.m. Where: Wellington Amphitheater Features: Lakeside Market, Food Truck & Music series Cost: Free admission; …

Read More about Free: Concert & Lakeside Market, Wellington, Feb. 26

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is presenting “Movie Night On The Lawn,” So, grab the kids, blankets and chairs and load up the car for an outdoor film about the endangered Florida Panther. Path of the Panther When: Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. Where: Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, 17855 Rocky Pines Road, Jupiter Cost: …

Read More about Movie Night On The Lawn, Busch Wildlife, Jupiter, Feb. 28

Art & Jazz on The Avenue, is the signature art and music event produced three times a year in different areas of downtown Delray Beach. It’s a community block party and admission is free. Website Art & Jazz on the Avenue: Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Location: West Atlantic Avenue from …

Read More about Free: Art & Jazz on the Ave., Delray Beach, Feb. 25

Here’s something you can do any time of year, but while the weather is pleasant, why not put on your walking shoes, grab your phone and maybe a friend and head out on a self-guided tour to discover the roots of Black culture hiding in plain site. This local sightseeing tour is something you can …

Read More about Discover Palm Beach’s Black Cultural Heritage Trail for free

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

Cheers to 100 Years!  Boca Street Fest will mark 100 years with Centennial Celebrations that include  live music, local flavors and unique vendors. The festival promises something for everyone. Admission is free. When: Saturday, March. 28, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. Where: Mizner Park, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton Get ready to continue the city’s …

Read More about Celebrate 100 years with Boca Street Fest, March 28

Nature Fest, MacArthur Beach State Park’s annual outdoor festival! This family friendly event will feature environmental exhibitors, live music, Florida native plant vendors, touch tank, food trucks, Kids Zone, kayaking, and much more! When: Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Where: John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North …

Read More about Free Nature Fest, MacArthur Park, North Palm Beach, March 7

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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