Clicky Skip to Content

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 weeknight entertainment, live bands perform outdoors in a shopping and dining district in Coral Springs.  Live music is from 6 to 8 p.m. every Wednesday and noon to 2 p.m. on the second Sunday of the month through April. Entry is free.  The Walk is at 2750 N. University Drive in Coral Springs. Entertainment …

Read More about Live bands at The Walk plaza in Coral Springs

You can hear your favorite local bands perform at the monthly Sounds at Sundown concerts in Margate. Entry is free. What: Sounds at Sundown Music: 6 p.m. the first Saturday of the month (except July and August) Food trucks: Food for purchase from food trucks starting at 5 p.m.  Where: Margate Sports, 1695 Banks Road, …

Read More about Free Sounds at Sundown live music in Margate

The Florida Renaissance Festival in Deerfield Beach offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a fantasy world  with performers, artisans and activities inspired by another place and time. Discount opportunities are offered. The popular event in 2026 is on weekends from February 7 through March 29 at Quiet Waters Park, 954-357-5100, 401 S. Powerline Road, …

Read More about Florida Renaissance Festival at Quiet Waters Park prices & discounts

If you like a selection of free and inexpensive things to do, Broward offers a variety of events that likely fit your fancy. Lively festivals and other events are ideal for frugal excursions with family, friends, and yourself. February includes the Orange Blossom Festival and Parade, Butterfly Festival, Black History Month exhibits and festivals, Valentine’s Day, …

Read More about Don’t-miss festivals and events in February in Broward

Rainy days, frosty days and hot days in South Florida offer an opportunity to focus on indoor fun. Be a tourist in your in your town and savor fresh sights, attractions and things to do. If you’re on a budget, various venues offer free or inexpensive entry, and some offer deals. It’s a good idea …

Read More about Indoor events and places to go when it’s cold and rainy

For a fresh approach to navigating sights and shopping in Fort Lauderdale, step aboard a free water trolley. The LauderGO Water Trolley ferries guests along a river route to an assortment of  points along the New River, all for free. The Water Trolley service is separate from Water Taxi vessels. Fees apply for Water Taxi. …

Read More about Free Water Trolley on New River in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re looking to soak  in the outdoors in South Florida, Fern Forest in north Broward is a lush oasis for nature walks and occasional free astronomy programs with telescopes. Delight in the scenic setting on your own or register for a guided hike. Most events are free or relatively inexpensive. Entry into the natural …

Read More about Fern Forest is ideal for nature walks & astronomy events & entry is free

For reducing energy use in your South Florida residence, Florida Power & Light offers free online resources. Using less electricity when the weather is frosty or hot outdoors helps save money on utilities fees. FPL Tips for Heating Homes Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower. Every degree below 68 saves you 5% on …

Read More about FPL tips for reducing energy expenses in nippy weather

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 …

Read More about Free live bands and vendors at Jazz Brunch on Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk

The City of Deerfield Beach is producing a free All That Jazz concert series under the stars on selected Friday nights. The events are at various parks, so bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food will be available for purchase. Here is the upcoming schedule: Friday, January 30. The Inner Court Band, 7 p.m., Crystal Heights …

Read More about Free All That Jazz concert series in Deerfield Beach

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.

Living on the Cheap in the Media