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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.

Popular Jazz Brunch events offer an afternoon of free outdoor entertainment along scenic Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale. The events are usually 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on first Sundays, with performers at different points along Riverwalk and Esplanade Park, 400 SW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale. Jazz Brunch If you’d like, bring your own picnic or …

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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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Entry is free for ArtLit,  a popular family event featuring art activities and performances. ArtLit in 2026 is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, January 10, in Pembroke Pines. The event emphasizes art and literature. This year’s festival will include creative and artistic interactive experiences related to nature and The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson and the …

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For a fun evening out that’s friendly for your wallet, direct yourself to downtown Pompano Beach, where you’ll delight in entertainment, food trucks, and art displays indoors and outdoors as part of Old Town Untapped events. The events are usually 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. the first Fridays of the month, except for summer. Entry …

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Rides, games and live bands are featured at Family Fun Fest in Parkland. Food vendors will be at the event.  Entry is free. Rides cost $3 to $6 each. Wristbands are available for unlimited rides.  The event in 2026 is: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, January 9. 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, January 10. …

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For a free family excursion, Sunrise Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a free drive-in film in West Broward.  The PG-rated animated film in 2026 is “The Wild Robot” produced by DreamWorks Animation 6:30 p.m. Friday, January 9, and entry is free. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and food vendors are at the event if …

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The Las Olas Art Fair is a popular outdoor event that features about 200 artists from different regions with displays set up along Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. Las Olas Boulevard is a ritzy and trendy shopping and dining district with fashion boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Las Olas Art Fairs in 2025 include: Saturday …

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Free events and entertainment for kids and adults are offered at Plantation Walk, a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining plaza in Plantation. Plantation Walk is at 321 N. University Drive, Plantation. Events usually are free, with free parking. Pets are permitted at some events. Outside food and beverages are typically not permitted. Events at Plantation Walk …

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While lots of parks in South Florida are relatively flat, Vista View Park in Davie is distinctive for its relatively tall terrain, with parts about 65 feet above sea level. Entry to Vista View  is free on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the fee is $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people or $20 …

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Shop for fresh produce, prepared foods, vintage treasures, art, decor and other items from South Florida vendors, farmers and artisans at the many farmers’ markets and vendor fairs in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. The South Florida farmers markets and vendor fairs often include opportunities for extra fun and entertainment like yoga, live music, …

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Performances, workshops and activities for youngsters are featured at some of the festivities in Broward for Kwanzaa, an African-American holiday.  Kwanzaa events in 2025 include  Library in Fort Lauderdale  Vendors from black-owned businesses, African dance and other performances are featured at a Kwanzaa event at the African-American Library in Fort Lauderdale.  The event in 2025 …

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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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