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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.

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

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

The inaugural Muscle on the Beach classic car show rolls into Delray Beach with Stingrays, Barracudas and other top-flight muscle cars of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s on display at Old School Square.https://sandoway.org/ The event is free for spectators, and a fundraiser to support sandoway.org. WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 …

Read More about Free classic car event ‘Muscle on the Beach’ in Delray, March 7

Mark your calendar and grab your green for this family friendly event features live Irish music, dancers, authentic food, a Guinness Beer Garden, plus whiskey tastings and a variety of other activities. Key Event Details: Date & Time: Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Location: Wellington Amphitheater, 12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd. …

Read More about Free Irish Festival, Wellington, March 7

The Boynton Beach Gold Coast Band will perform a special program to celebrate the nation’s 250 years. Happy Birthday, America! When: Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 3 p.m. Where: Coral Lakes Theater, 12751 El Clair Ranch Road, Boynton Beach Tickets are $10 at the door; children under 12 get in free. Website for more information …

Read More about $10 concert, Boynton Beach Gold Coast Band, April 26

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is a South Florida gem and if you’ve never been there, or it’s been a while, make sure you register for free admission early and mark your calendar so you don’t miss this upcoming event. Set against the scenic backdrop where river meets sea, this two-day celebration will spotlight the creativity …

Read More about Free: Festival Days at Jupiter Lighthouse, March 21-22

February is another busy month in South Florida. It’s especially a popular time for outdoor events, given the slightly lower temps. Here’s a brief overview of what’s in store in 2026. Check out our recommendations for the best free and cheap things to do in February in Palm Beach County. We also have lists of the …

Read More about Top things to do in February in Palm Beach County

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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