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Mary Lou Cruz

I worked at the South Florida Sun Sentinel for 21 years, as an Advertising Special Sections Writer; Editorial Systems Editor in Technology; and Editorial Assistant in the Newsroom. Before my newspaper career, I worked in the airline and travel industry and I have lived in Brazil, Puerto Rico and vacationed in more than 25 countries. Originally, I'm from Maryland. I moved to Florida in 1984 and raised my daughter in Miami. Send me notices and details for upcoming free events, in Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties, to events@SouthFloridaOnTheCheap.com.

Mark your calendar: Miami-Dade College is holding a monthly blow-out event called “Market & Movie,” but it’s so much more. Not only will the Wolfson Campus feature an open-air market, but there will also be live music, dance, food trucks, games and a pet fashion show! When: Thursday, Oct. 5, from 5 to 9 p.m.; …

Read More about Wolfson Market & Movie is free, Oct. 5, Miami

This season opener not only features masterworks but also includes new compositions during the Florida Atlantic University Symphony Orchestra’s premiere concert of its 32nd season. What: “Exuberance & Wonder“ When: 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023 Where: University Theatre, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431 Cost: General admission $10; a $2 service fee is …

Read More about ‘Exuberance & Wonder’ by FAU Symphony Orchestra, Boca

With the extreme heat index lately, water conservation is a primary concern. The City of West Palm Beach is addressing the issue with several programs to help residents save money and water. Oct. 3, 2023 is the next giveaway date; registration open.  New water customers can receive welcome kits of their choice: Indoor kit: Leak …

Read More about Updated: Free Rain Barrels Oct. 3, West Palm Beach

On Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023, the Delray Beach Police Department will host a free, community-wide event for National Night Out from 6 to 10 p.m., at Old School Square. 51 N. Swinton Ave.  The annual event features free food, giveaways, police demonstrations, and activities for kids. The focus of this annual event is to build on …

Read More about Free: National Night Out Against Crime, Delray Beach

This Sunday at The Square features a Pet Paw-ty with a Pooch Parade and pet costume contest, plus DJ entertainment, giveaways as well as pet pop-ups, from 9:30 to 11 a.m., Oct. 1, 2023. Free to attend with RSVP (see below). This special event is being hosted in partnership with the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue …

Read More about Free ‘Pooch Parade’ at The Square on Sunday

Transportation is a big deal, and when it’s free, that’s even better! Driving and maintaining insured vehicles can be costly. Trying to navigate heavy traffic patterns can be frustrating. Finding a nearby parking space can be a time-consuming challenge like no other.  So, here’s an option that can aid in cutting down on the frustration …

Read More about Updated: Take a free ride on the Coral Gables Trolley

There’s a new fall event happening at Sanborn Square that will feature live performances, local artists, vendors and plentiful food options.  Night Market in Sanborn Square at 72 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton. It will be open from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 5, Nov. 2, and Dec. 14, 2023. For a complete …

Read More about Night Market: Music, food, vendors, Boca Raton

If it’s Friday, there’s a new place to gather for family fun: Lakeside Market, that not only includes food and other vendors but also live music, shopping and sunsets. Free parking and free admission, plus it’s pet friendly for most on-leash furry friends, too. When: Fridays, 6-9 p.m., Sept. 22, 2023 – Feb. 23, 2024 …

Read More about Free entry Fridays to Lakeside Market: Music, food & vendors, Wellington

Wellington families are in for a treat at this year’s Fall Festival, a one-night only event on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, from 3 to 10 p.m. at Village Park. There will be live music and performances on the sound stage, food vendors and lots of fun for little ones. Admission is free, but wristbands are …

Read More about Fall Festival in Wellington, Saturday, Oct. 21

Nothing says Hispanic Heritage Month and Latin culture like music and food. This year, for 2023, Smorgasburg Miami is offering a culinary journey to celebrate the aromas and flavors from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Venezuela, Peru, Colombia, and more. This is a FREE entry event suitable for families at two locations: Friday, Sept.29, …

Read More about Free entry: Smorgasburg Miami celebrates Latino food, culture at two venues

The Children’s Science Explorium in Sugar Sand Park is a free hands-on science center designed for children 5-12 years of age and their caregivers. It offers fascinating and interactive exhibits, programs that bring the physical sciences to life. Admission is free, however a suggested donation of $5 per person is appreciated. The  Sugar Sand Park …

Read More about Free ‘Science Weekends,’ Sugar Sand Park, Boca Raton

Living on the CheapMiami 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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