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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. Email: events@SouthFloridaOnTheCheap.com.

UPDATE: New times No performance on Thursday, April 25, 2024; starting Saturday, April 27, performances will start at 5:30 p.m. and end at 9:30 p.m. Street Stages will be weekly, every Thursday and Saturday, through May 25, 2024. Performances take place across from Julia & Henry’s, at 223 E. Flagler St., downtown Miami. This free community programming …

Read More about Free Street Stages: Dancing in the streets of Miami

Join El Camino for Cinco De Mayo and enjoy a free street festival full of games, outdoor bars, face painting, family-friendly activities and more. While you’re there, enjoy music on the lawn by a live DJ and the sounds of a live mariachi band. Food and beverage prices vary. Expect to see a variety of …

Read More about Free Cinco de Mayo street festival in West Palm Beach

If you enjoy Jai-Alai, you’re in for a treat. The Spring Season is under way at the Magic City Fronton, and runs through May 17. What: Spring 2024 Season of Battle Court Opener When: Every Friday through May 17, 2024; doors open at 6:30 p.m. Where: Magic City Fronton, 450 NW 37th Ave., Miami Cost: …

Read More about Free Jai-Alai, spring season open at Magic City Fronton, Miami

The Bass Museum of Art Creativity Center offers a monthly therapeutic art series, Art Cares, on the last Sunday of the month from 2 to 4 p.m. and free museum admission all day. Free art-making materials are provided to participants. The purpose is to create a family event to experience the power of art. Visit …

Read More about Free Family Day events monthly, Miami Beach

Get ready for one of the wackiest versions of the Cinderella story yet. Players at the Fantasy Theatre Factory have taken the classic fairytale and mixed in elements of comedy, slapstick, music, acrobatics and magic. The result is hilarious because what you get is a new version of an old story that not only appeals …

Read More about ‘Cinderella, A Fractured Fairy Tale,’ sensory-inclusive show, Miami

Here’s an idea, grab your sombrero, appetite and take the family to celebrate Cinco de Mayo by joining the Delray Beach community at Old School Square for El Camino’s annual block party. It will feature live entertainment, food and more. Admission is free; vendor prices vary. What: El Camino’s Cinco de Mayo celebration When: Sunday, …

Read More about Free: Cinco De Mayo block party, Delray Beach

The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum is continuing to waive general admission fees and opening its doors on the first Saturday of the month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for families to peruse the exhibits and enjoy a craft-based activity for youngsters at 2 p.m. Families receive FREE admission to the History Museum on the …

Read More about Free fun on first Saturdays at Boca History Museum

The Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach was founded more than 40 years ago, but the challenges it faces today have not only been compounded by the effects of recent climate change but also by the increase of red tide and toxic blue-green algae on sea creatures and ocean ecology. Situated on one of the …

Read More about Free admission at Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Juno Beach

Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 6 to 9 p.m., Rock the Plaza at Ocean Palm Plaza, Boynton Beach, will feature free live music, vendors and a variety of special offers from local businesses. Community members who attend the events to listen to live music and enjoy family-friendly activities will also become familiar with local and new …

Read More about Rock the Plaza at Boynton Beach with music and discounts

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre has teamed up with Coral Gables Commissioner Kirk Menendez to introduce a new generation to some classic, legendary flicks. Tickets are free; order online. Don’t delay, limited seating, get yours while they last. What: “Iron Man” When: Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 5 p.m. Upcoming screenings include: Iron Man – …

Read More about Free ‘Iron Man’ at Miracle Theatre, Coral Gables

There will be performances from drag artists, musicians, comedians, poets, and dancers, along with food trucks but that’s not all. There will also be a variety show and art exhibit for communal healing from violence, a sensory space to relax and get a tarot card reading or a confidential health-screening test onsite.  What: Queer Fest …

Read More about Queer Fest variety show & art exhibit, Little Haiti

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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