Free & Cheap stuff to do this weekend
Maybe you broke the bank on Valentine's Day and you need to watch your pennies this weekend. Or maybe you just live in Miami and your living expenses keep gobbling up your paycheck. Well I'm here to help you by suggesting a few inexpensive (some even free) options around the 305:St. Stephen's Art Show
The Coconut Grove Arts Festival has gotten a bit pricey over the years but there's a great alternative, the St. Stephen's Art Show, Feb. 17-19. Held on the grounds of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, under their beautiful shade trees, it's a great place to find lovely original art pieces by local artisans. I especially like the garden ornaments but they've also got jewelry, art and other handcrafted pieces. Make sure to check out the live local music at the Makersfest Feb. 17 and 18 which is at the same location except you enter off Main Hwy. instead of McFarlane Rd. the art show entrance Admission is free to both. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Find all the details here.Live Music on Giralda Plaza
If you love Giralda Plaza you don't have to wait until Giralda Under the Stars on the first Friday. Every other Friday at 8 p.m. they host free Live Music Fridays at the pedestrian-friendly plaza. Grab a seat under the hanging lights and enjoy music by local musicians, a rotating list that changes every week. It ranges from solo acoustic guitarists to bands performing top 40s hits and classic rock. This is just one of the weekly events on Giralda Plaza. Check out what else they've got going on here.DWNTWN Movie Nights
You've probably been to a concert or yoga class at Bayfront Park but have you gone there to watch a movie? Now's your chance when Miami Downtown Development Authority hosts their free DWNTWN Movie Night Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. with "The Emoji Movie." Maybe you missed it while it was in theaters or the kids just have to see it again. C'mon you use them enough on your phone and social media, why not see them life size? If you get there early you an enjoy happy hour starting at 5 p.m. Details here.Kite Days Festival
Each year this event gets bigger so make plans to arrive early. You'll know you've arrived when you see the colorful and sometimes enormous kites being flown at Haulover Park. The annual event always features the signature 100-foot flying squid and 300-square-foot parafoils. Bring your own kite and show your flying skills or make one at the paper kite-building classes led by event hosts Skyward Kites. Bring a blanket and sit and enjoy music by The Free Radz Band and kids can get their face painted and play a variety of games. Feb. 17 and 18, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Details here.
