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Patti Roth

Patti Roth, the editor of Fort Lauderdale on the Cheap, scouts out state and national deals, discounts and coupons for our readers, finding the real deals and presenting them in an easy-to-read format. A veteran newspaper and magazine writer and a longtime South Florida resident, she has written for The Miami Herald, The Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida Travel and Life, E Environmental Magazine, Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy, US Architecture and Earth911.com. Send your cheap tips to her at info@fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com.

For a fun, unique and inexpensive activity in north Broward, hop aboard a little railroad.  The teeny train runs on tracks around a pond at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek. Train rides offered third weekends Functioning model locomotives offer rides 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the third full weekend of each month, weather permitting. It’s …

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If you’re interested in sprucing up your landscaping, an organization is offering free trees at an event in Broward.  The free trees are open to anyone, regardless of where they reside, while supplies last. There will be 150 trees available. The event is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at Village Art Plaza, 2260 NW 68th …

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Treat yourself to live entertainment outdoors.  Groove N Grub events in 2026 include 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 16 with reggae music and entry is free. The featured band is Jah Steve and the Counteract Crew.  The event is at Sabal Pines Park, 5005 NW 39th Ave., Coconut Creek. Bring your own seats and …

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Pembroke Pines recreation department is offering free swimming and free tennis for Kids To Parks Day. Kids To Parks Day is a nationwide event promoting parks and recreation activities for kids and families. In 2026, the event is Saturday, May 16. Events in Pembroke Pines Free tennis activities are 9 a.m. to noon at Pembroke …

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Sunrise Parks & recreation department offers an outdoor event space at Village Art Plaza that is packed with sculptures and other vibrant outdoor art displays. Entry is free. Parking is free. Village Art Plaza is at 2260 NW 68th Ave., Sunrise 33313. Events in 2026 at Village Art Plaza include Free trees  Free trees are …

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Woofing Waters Dog Park within Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach offers water-spritzing features for dogs. It’s a fun venue for water-loving pets and people who adore their dogs. Fees are $5 per day for up to 3 dogs in a family. On weekends and holidays, other fees for entry to Quiet Waters Park apply.  …

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Residents interested in information about financial aid, food pantries & other social services resources for individuals and families are welcome to simply dial 2-1-1. 2-1-1 Broward is a free health and human services helpline providing support and valuable information about local agencies and organizations offering resources related to specific issues. Connecting with 2-1-1 Broward counselors …

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For a delightful excursion that’s friendly to your wallet, Oakland Park is hosting the Oakland Park Art Walk. The event 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. May 16 is free, with free activities and entertainment artists and artisan vendors street performers artists working on projects LED light show face painting, glitter tattoos and other activities The …

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Tasty foods  from South Florida restaurants and food vendors are featured at Smoke on The Water BBQ Feast on Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale.  Entry is free. BBQ, drinks and other food items are offered for purchase. The event in 2026 is 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at Esplanade Park, 400 SW Second …

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Information about storms and weather-related activities for youngsters and families are featured at a free Eye of the Storm hurricane preparedness event in Fort Lauderdale. The Museum of Discovery and Science is joining Florida International University’s Hurricane Research Center and the Florida Division of Emergency Management for the event. The event in 2026 is 10 …

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 Flippers theater in Hollywood features $5 ticket deals.  Flippers movie theater and arcade offers $5 movies Wednesdays.  The deal does not apply to new releases, special showings or  3D movies.  The $5 offer does not apply to holidays. Flippers theater and arcade is at 7001 Taft St., Hollywood 33024. Sign up for the South Florida …

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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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