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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.

For folks who sign up for the free Family rewards program at Ikea, participating restaurants in the home goods stores offer deals. Some deals require the Family rewards ID, others do not.  Ikea restaurant deals include falafel entree is $4.99 while promotion is offered        Ikea Broward, 151 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise 33325 …

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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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Foreign films are offered monthly in Deerfield Beach, presented by Deerfield Beach Historical Society. Admission is $10, free for society members. The international films often include refreshments related to the nation where the film was produced. Donations are appreciated. International Film Night is usually 7 p.m. the third Friday of the month at the Deerfield …

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Nibble on fare from food trucks in North Lauderdale and delight in the groove of Reaxtion Band. Feel free to bring blankets or portable seats. Reaxtion Band performs Motown hits. Other features include a kids zone and vendors.  The event in 2026 is 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday, April 24 and entry is free.  …

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For folks who want to relish the outdoors, parks in South Florida are ideal. Several Broward regional parks that usually require an entry fee on weekends and holidays are free on week days and some holidays. Weekend fees are $3 per vehicle for up to eight people and $20 for at least 9 people. Regional …

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For folks who like friendly outdoor events featuring food trucks, artisan vendors, and interesting wares to purchase, Equality Park After Dark in Broward is a free event. Equality Park After Dark events with handmade and vintage items in 2026 are usually  6 p.m. to 9 p.m. select third Thursdays, with free parking. The venue is …

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For an interesting twist on nightlife activities, register for evening nature walks at Broward parks.  Some parks occasionally offer night hikes in forests, prairies, on shorelines and other intriguing outdoor spaces. On the tour, you’ll savor distinctive nocturnal sights, scents and sounds of evenings in the wild. It’s a nice idea for a romantic date, …

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For art aficionados and folks interested in free things to do, the Coral Springs Museum of Art offers free entry every day to browse the  exhibits and displays. Photo: Coral Springs Museum of Art Things To Do ARTventures Family Fun Day events are at 2 p.m. the second Saturday of the month and include a …

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Festivals, live entertainment and hands-on activities are among the variety of events offered in Pompano Beach.  Lots of events are free. They’re ideal for dates, families and solo excursions. Events in Pompano Beach include 2026 events Fatherhood Family Fun Day  Games, prizes and organizations offering family resources are featured at the Fatherhood Family Fun Day …

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Thrive Art District in Fort Lauderdale hosts a monthly (or so) Art Walk with art exhibits, food trucks and vendors. Entertainment is featured at the event.  Art Walks in 2026 include: 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 28. The event will include entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, food and drink and raffles 6 p.m. – …

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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 a venue for occasional festivals and live  entertainment. T.Y. Park …

Read More about TY Park in Hollywood offers walking, jogging and bike paths with lake and oak trees

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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