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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.

You may have seen ads and announcements on social media about Candlelight Concerts throughout South Florida. These special events not only provide a multi-sensory musical experience, but also include a depth of repertoire and breadth of genres, from classical and jazz to show tunes and pop music. What is Candlelight? These concerts give the public …

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Visit the Norton Museum of Art for a free accessible art workshop for the entire family every month. This program will feature interactive time in the gallery and art-making in the classroom, plus all participating staff members are trained to lead programs for people with autism. When: Third Sunday of each month, from 3 to …

Read More about Free: Family Autism Art Workshop, third Sunday, West Palm Beach

If you’re on a quest to discover a place where you can take the kids and enjoy the day for next to nothing, then the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton is definitely a place for the whole family to enjoy an authentic outdoor Florida adventure. NOTE: Normally, general admission is free, however special …

Read More about Free entry: Daily feedings at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Boca Raton

There’s music in the air, so get ready to gather and groove to weekly and monthly entertainment. It’s free music and more on The Lawn at CityPlace in the heart of West Palm Beach. Free entertainment is offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and everyone is invited to attend for free. For a complete listing of …

Read More about Free: Weekend music & more on The Lawn at CityPlace

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

Have you ever fed a shark or a stingray? Wouldn’t it be great if there were a place you could take the kids that would be educational and fun for an entire afternoon for only $10? Well, there is. Sandoway Discovery Center in Delray Beach offers the following activities all for the cost of admission: …

Read More about Explore aquatic life at Sandoway Discovery Center in Delray

Walking in nature has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, both physical and mental. Experts say it can not only help reduce stress, but it also may improve one’s mood, boost creativity, and even improve cognitive function. So, grab the sunscreen and bug repellant, your comfy walking shoes, and if you …

Read More about Guided nature walks, animal encounters and more at Riverbend Park, Jupiter

If you are a student, educator, veteran or first responder, and you don’t mind making plans at the last minute, here’s an opportunity to check out at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Education & Veteran “rush” Ticket Program Please note that availability is limited and is not valid for all performances. The cost …

Read More about ‘Rush’ discounts at Kravis Center for those eligible, West Palm Beach

Making the arts more accessible and affordable to full-time students is now a reality, thanks to the ArshtPass student discount program, which provides $25 tickets to select shows. Plus, they are also offering similar $50 tickets to those 18-35 years old. ArshtPass members get exclusive access to limited discounted tickets for select shows, including concerts, …

Read More about ArshtPass offers $25 tickets for full-time college students, $50 for ages 18-35 years, Miami

Ask yourself: Are you interested in a naturalist-led group night hike to search for the superstars of the night like nocturnal animals?  How does a guided walk through a pine flatwood forest to encounter wildlife along with a red-shouldered hawk sound? Are you interested in learning more about and seeing up close an American alligator …

Read More about Many Palm Beach Parks & Rec programs are free or cheap

Whether you’re into jazz, live theater, dance, musicals, or perhaps a touring troupe of acrobats, the  Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts has something in store to satisfy even the most discriminating cultural palate. Location: Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132. Check out the roster for upcoming …

Read More about Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, a stunning hub of culture in Miami

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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