Drum Circle at Third Beach, Stanley Park: A Fun Gathering in Nature
If you visit Third Beach in Stanley Park on a sunny evening, you might hear the sound of drums echoing through the trees and along the beach. That’s because of the famous drum circle gatherings — a free and open event where people come together to play music, dance, and enjoy the outdoors.
What Are Drum Circle?
A drum circle is when a group of people sit or stand in a circle and play drums or other percussion instruments together. There’s no set leader or strict rules — it's about feeling the rhythm, joining in, and having fun. Everyone is welcome, whether you're a skilled drummer or just want to clap or dance along.
About Brahms Tams Drum Circle
Locals often call this gathering the "Brahms Tams Drum Circle," a fun name that imitates the sound of the drums. It’s modeled after a similar drum jam in Montreal and is all about the love of unity, rhythm, and community.
2025 marks the 20th year of this drum circle happening at Third Beach!
On nice summer evenings, you can see tens of drummers and hundreds of people dancing, listening, and enjoying the sunset together.
When and Where?
Where: Third Beach, Stanley Park, Vancouver
When: Every sunny Tuesday evening, from late March through September
Time: After work (around 6 PM) until sunset (around 10 PM or earlier)
The 2025 season started on March 26, 2025!
What To Bring
You don’t need anything special to join:
If you have a drum, tambourine, or shaker, bring it along.
If you don’t, you can simply clap, dance, or enjoy the music.
Some people bring blankets, snacks, and friends to relax and make an evening of it.
A Few Important Rules
While the event is free and open to everyone, it is still unofficial and unlicensed, so a few community rules have developed to keep it peaceful:
- No fires or fire spinning
- Leave no trash behind (Leave No Trace)
- No openly drinking alcohol or behaving poorly
- No ball games or rough play inside the circle
- No smoking (cigarettes or joints) inside or near the circle — step away if you wish to smoke
- No dogs allowed in the circle
Note: Some people may smoke herbs nearby, so it may not always feel completely family-friendly.
Why People Love It
The drum circle at Third Beach is about much more than just music.
They are about community, connection, freedom, and enjoying the beautiful natural setting of Stanley Park. Whether you come to drum, dance, meet new people, or simply enjoy the sunset, it’s a memorable experience that captures the spirit of Vancouver.
Photos are from the Admin of the Drum Circle Facebook page: Mikul Culver
