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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.

Vintage fire truck. Everglades display. In addition to exhibits, Plantation Historical Museum offers occasional fun events and activities. The museum usually is open 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on  Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with occasional exceptions. Donations are accepted. It’s wise to verify it’s open the day you are interested in. Plantation Historical Museum, …

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Officials from Broward Animal Division are offering a free device for pets. The free devices are microchips, teeny devices inserted into the pet that offer digital identification information. In 2023, free appointments for Broward residents are offered in June online. Broward Animal Division is at 2400 SW 42nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, 33312. Free & inexpensive …

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For dining out, some people prefer lively food truck events.  Rock The Block food truck events are offered 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. third Saturdays in Dania, and usually include DJ entertainment and games. Some events include live entertainment. Rock The Block is outdoors at the Casino @ Dania Beach, 301 E. Dania Beach Boulevard, …

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Grab your towel.  Tamarac Parks and Recreation is offering a Water Safety Expo and Free Swim event. Pirate Plunge and Safety Sail  in 2024 is 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, May 18, with free entry and registration is required. The event is at the aquatic facilities, 9300 NW 58th Street, Tamarac 33321, and it …

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With a focus on protecting oceans and sea turtles, the Marine Environmental Education Center in Hollywood is open to the public with exhibits and a saltwater pool where you can watch a rescued sea turtle swim and eat. The female turtle on site is not releasable due to injuries from boats, according to a representative …

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If you’re into plant-based fare, several vegetarian festivals and vegan fairs are in South Florida. Some events are free. Others require an entry fee. Once inside, vendors are selling burgers, wraps, sushi, desserts and other foods free of animal products. 2023 events  Palm Beach VegFest events No Event — January 22  West Palm Beach  No …

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Topeekeegee-Yugnee Park in Hollywood – or TY Park, as it’s known – is popular for a variety of outdoor activities. South Floridians love it because it’s a great venue for walking, running or skating on a shady path around a lake lined with oaks. It’s also a venue for festivals and entertainment. TY Park is  …

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For errands, sightseeing or scooting around for fun, a network of self-serve bike pickup and dropoff stations are available in Fort Lauderdale. Bike-share bikes are intended for relatively brief point-to-point excursions. Regular bikes and electric bikes are offered.   Regular Fees $5 for each 30 minutes $35 and $88 for memberships, which includes some free trips …

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Delight in foods and live entertainment representing Asian-American and Pacific Islander friends and neighbors. Asian American and Pacific Islander Evening in 2023 is 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. May 6 outdoors in the park at 6900 Miramar Parkway, Miramar 33023. Entry to the event is free. Asian food items and drinks are available for purchase. …

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Yesteryear Village in West Palm offers an interactive historical park with an Old Florida vibe. Original and replicated structures at the attraction include a school, shops, and a farm. The historical attraction also includes houses and representatives playing the part of local residents from the era.  Yesteryear Village usually is open 10 a.m. to 4 …

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For a price break on a fun activity in Broward, roller skating is $9 on Wednesdays in  Davie. The price includes skate rentals. The $9 deal is offered 6 p.m. to  8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Galaxy Skateway. The regular price is usually about $15.  Recommendation: Phone first to ensure the venue is open and offering …

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