What can i do?

I started a forum and well basicly like everyone i want to get my forum popular. Can anyone recommend anything, and please don't say advertise because it is abviouse. What i mean is the way i can advertise and maybe that you allready tested on yourself or just know they are going to work. Ofcourse i would like free ways to advertise but ofcourse i would be willing to put money into it if they is some sort of guarantee.

Thank you,
Deadman