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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.

Florida is offering its residents an opportunity to purchase storm and safety supplies without paying state sales tax, which is 6 percent. Instead of a shopping event on designated dates, as of August 2025, Florida is exempting eligible supplies from taxes whenever you purchase them. You’ll save at least $6 on every $100 you spend. …

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If you appreciate frugal excursions, plenty of entertaining events, attractions and interesting activities in Broward are ideal for a delightful date. Some are free, others are relatively inexpensive. Make the most of it. With extra dollars in your wallet, splurge on sparkling wine, a fancy dessert, or other romantic indulgence. We also have a list …

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Enhance a walk in the park with a story along the way. Waters Edge Park in Tamarac features a story trail. Story trails, also referred to as story walks, are outdoor exhibits featuring pages from a storybook displayed along a path. It’s a free activity for families with kids — and a great way to …

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AllGolf in Pembroke Pines features putt-put golf, with two 18-hole play areas. Here are the regular fees for  miniature golf: $13 Mondays – Fridays for 18 holes, $15 for 36 holes  $14 Saturdays & Sundays for  18 holes, $16 for 36 holes Discount opportunity 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. Tuesdays kids 12 and younger  play …

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Pull out your favorite swimwear. The water playground at Quiet Waters Park offers occasional extra events and opportunities for discounts. Splash Adventure is an interactive shallow water playground with slides and spritzy features. Quiet Waters Park, 954-357-5100, is at 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach 33442.  Water playground fees & discounts $6 per day, and …

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For a deal at a popular Fort Lauderdale historical attraction, teens and youngsters 17 and younger enter free with adults paying $25. The deal at Bonnet House in 2025 is offered June, July and August, and includes entry to the historical house and the lavish gardens at the 35-acre beachfront property.   Bonnet House, 954-703-2614, is …

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Sunrise Parks & recreation department offers an outdoor event space — Village Art Plaza — that is packed with sculptures and other vibrant outdoor art displays. Entry for many events is free. Parking is free. Village Art Plaza is at 2260 NW 68th Ave., Sunrise 33313. Events in 2025 at Village Art Plaza include Food …

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Swim or lounge on the deck. Pompano Beach is offering free dive-in movie events. Dive-in movies at 8 p.m. in Pompano Beach in 2025 include: June 6 “Moana 2” July 18 “Shark Tale” August 8 “Mufasa”  Dive-in films are at the aquatics facilities, 901 NW 10th St., Pompano Beach 33060. Dial 954-786-4116 for more information.  …

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PrideFete in Broward features entertainment and food with an Islands vibe, and an opportunity to nab tickets at a discount. Opportunities for free entry are offered.  The vibrant festive event in Wilton Manors  is 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday, August 9, at Richardson Park and Nature Preserve. What:  LGBTQ Caribbean festival Fee: Tickets before …

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Old Town in Pompano Beach is the venue for free Backyard Jam events featuring local and regional bands. The events are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. select third Fridays and entry is free. Entertainment  includes: January 17 Box of Rocks February 21 Hangin with Brodie March 21 April 18 Simona Electra Show May 16 Stryder …

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Gallons of recycled exterior latex paint in a selection of hues are offered free to eligible Broward residents in towns participating in the program Residents can request free outdoor paint if they reside in one of the municipalities that participate in the  program.  If you’re interested in scoring free paint, phone  the public works department …

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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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