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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.

Treat yourself to live concerts at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale. Several are free.  If you’d like, you may make a donation. Free performances in 2026 include: 4 p.m. Sunday, January 25 Astralis Chamber Ensemble Venue First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-6200, is at 401 Southeast 15th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, 33301. Sign up for …

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Organizations in South Florida offer free food distribution for families needing help. Some sites provide drive-through pickups, while others offer doorstep deliveries for eligible participants. Eligibility requirements vary among different organizations. Some are open to everyone.  Food distributions are in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach. Often the organizations accept volunteers and donations. This list is …

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Eligible apparel, household items and other goods are typically half-price on Wednesdays at participating Salvation Army Family Stores in Broward. The deal is valid for lots of items at the thrift stores including shoes, purses and other goods, except furniture. Participating stores offer other discounts, such as a discount 0f 50% on yellow  items, except …

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For a price break on a fun activity in Broward, roller skating is $12 on Wednesdays in  Davie. The price includes skate rentals. The $12 deal is offered 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Galaxy Skateway.  The regular price is usually about  $15-$20 with skate rentals. Recommendation: Phone first to ensure the venue is …

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Plantation is rocking out with free Rock The Park outdoor events that include live bands and food trucks. Events are usually first Fridays and sometimes first Saturdays, at Pine Island Park, with food vendors set up at 6 p.m. and entertainment at 7 p.m. and entry is free.  Featured bands in 2026 include: Saturday, February …

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For frugal entertainment, Weston offers occasional outdoor movies that are free.  Outdoor films in 2026 include 7:30 p.m. January 24 “Superman”  8 p.m. March 6 “Smurfs”  Weather occasionally postpones plans for outdoor activities, so it’s wise to verify events are still scheduled before you go. For information, 954-389-4321 or refer to the Weston website. Other …

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Jazz pros and student artists participate in Jazz Jams in Fort Lauderdale, and the jams are free to attend for spectators.  The events are at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. Parking is free. In 2026, Jazz Jams are 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. first Fridays January to June for a delightful event that’s great …

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Floats, twirlers, and dancers are among entertainment featured in the Sistrunk Parade and Festival in Fort Lauderdale. Sistrunk Parade and Festival in 2026 is 8:30 a.m. Saturday, February 28, for the parade and 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. for the festival. Entry to the festivities is free.  The event is in association with Black History …

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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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