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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.

With the surf and ocean air offering delightful ambience, live bands offer free entertainment and lively events are featured at Las Olas Oceanside Park in Fort Lauderdale throughout the year. Featured Events Sound Waves The popular Friday Night Sound Waves free concerts are 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. through April.  Here is the schedule: Friday, …

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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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The Parks and Recreation Department in Parkland offers occasional festivals, free films and other events.  Many events are free and open to the public.  Events in 2026 include Eats ‘N Beats Parkland offers free entry for occasional Eats ‘N Beats  events that include food trucks and live entertainment 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Pine …

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Walk into a library and walk out with a digital tablet. Or a robot. Or a Frisbee. Participating libraries in South Florida loan items like electronic devices, robotic devices and bird watching gear. Use your library account number. Obtaining a library account is free for eligible residents.  Broward libraries loan  Digital tablets for ages 18 …

Read More about Libraries loan laptops, educational toys & other gear for free

YMCA South Florida organizations offer free swim lessons for water safety. The lessons are for kids, teens and adults.  Free lessons in 2026 are March 16 to March 20, and registration is required online.  YMCA facilities in Broward offering free swim instruction include Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood.  Residency in Broward is …

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The Deerfield Beach Historical Society is hosting an outdoor Driveway Friday Concert Series once a month at the Museum and Cultural Center. The series features local performers, usually the second Friday of the month. Admission is $10 (free for historical society members). The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Here is the upcoming schedule: Friday, …

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Nab a 40 percent discount for the Fort Lauderdale Beer, Wine and Spirits Festival. The organizers of the event are offering an opportunity for the deal. The festival in 2026 is 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 28 and featuring tastings of about 100 adult beverages. The event …

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Relax outdoors in a park and delight in free live jazz entertainment. Jazz In the Park events in Lauderhill are at Lieberman Botanical Gardens, 3801 Inverrary Boulevard, Lauderhill 33319.   Events in 2026 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 8. The featured performer is Randy Corinthian. Portable seating and blankets are permitted, and food …

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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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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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