Advertise your drum circle in locations where people may have an interest, such as local community boards or in coffee shops and grocery stores. Include relevant information like whether participants need to bring their own equipment, and if children are welcome. If you will be providing the drums, it's a good idea to request an RSVP on the advertisement.
Set up the location beforehand to prevent any space issues when the event takes place. Choose a public place large enough to give the group some breathing room, like a park or big conference room. You can alternately choose to host the circle in your own home, provided your neighbors are understanding of the noise and the participants would be comfortable with such an arrangement.
Set the chairs in a circle, far enough apart that each participant will have room without bumping into each other but close enough to maintain the sense of community. You also may want to consider providing drums for participants who may not have them. While this step is technically optional, it's unrealistic to expect that everyone who would like to participate will have their own instrument.
Lead the drumming session. This important position sets the pace for the rest of the circle, so the leader needs to pay close attention to the needs of the other participants and respond accordingly. Set a pace the others in your group can easily match but can fluidly switch to a faster or slower pace as needed. If possible, try carrying a smaller drum and move through the group. Sit next to people who seem to be struggling and help them find the rhythm of the music.
Always stay in control of the pace, or it could easily get out of hand. If other participants start to quicken the pace unnecessarily or pull away from the group, motion for the others to look at you and make sure your movements can be seen clearly as you strike the drum. This will bring the rhythm back under control.
Provide refreshments for the end of the drum circle. Often these drumming sessions can become lively and intense, and hydration is a necessary concern. Water should be provided, but you can also offer a selection of drinks and appetizers or dessert. Alternately, you can ask everyone to bring a dish for a more potluck atmosphere.