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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 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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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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For a frugal date night with a twist, Broward Library is offering an outdoor event in Fort Lauderdale for adults that features a violinist and stories by professional performers.  Moonlight Tales in 2026 is 6:30 p.m. Friday, February 27,  in the park, adjacent to the library at 100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. Registration is …

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Enhance your yard, patio and indoor areas with plants, including native species and edibles. Lots of free information is available for South Florida residents, such as  tips on selecting the perfect plants for a particular area.  For personalized information, landscaping experts from extension offices in Miami-Dade, Broward & West Palm Beach answer questions via phone …

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Kids work with their hands putting together fun projects at free interactive workshops offered in South Florida at participating Home Depot and Lowe’s stores. At the workshops, youngsters build a toy truck, a photo holder, or other item. Parents or others are invited to work with them. It’s a good idea to register online, especially …

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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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The Fort Lauderdale Air Show features exciting aerial entertainment over the ocean. The event in 2026 featuring U.S. Air Force jets flying in formation, parachute jumping and other high-flying performances  is 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. May 9 and May 10 at Fort Lauderdale beach. Entry to designated paid locations is offered for a fee, and …

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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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The Hollywood Beach Bandshell is a delightful venue for free live entertainment oceanside. Salty breezes. Waves rolling ashore. Favorite local bands, and fans, rocking out. Delightful. The bandshell is on a lovely pedestrian promenade. The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk  runs more than two miles along the beach, and it lined with restaurants, shops and motels. Entertainment …

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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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