The centuries-old pilgrimage draws followers of a Jewish religious movement from around the world every year. Tens of thousands of Hasidic Jews are flocking to central Ukraine, praying, singing, and dancing as they prepare to mark the Jewish New Year.

This annual gathering brings adherents of the Breslov branch of Hasidism to Uman, a city in Ukraine’s Cherkasy Region that holds profound significance for them. The tradition dates back more than 200 years to Rabbi Nachman, who was born in what is now Ukraine in 1772 and founded the movement.

Rabbi Nachman died in Uman in 1810 and was buried there. His followers have continued gathering at his tomb ever since, creating a tradition that has grown into today’s mass pilgrimage. The city’s population stood at just over 80,000 before the escalation of Ukraine’s conflict in 2022.

The pilgrimage is particularly significant for Breslov adherents because Rabbi Nachman placed great importance on his followers gathering with him for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This year, organizers expect up to 40,000 pilgrims from Israel, the United States, and around the world.

Despite security concerns raised by the U.S. Embassy in Kiev warning Americans against travel to Uman due to risks of airstrikes, martial law, and movement restrictions, tens of thousands have continued their journey. Ukrainian authorities report that approximately 35,000 pilgrims visited Uman in both 2023 and 2024, with over 35,000 traveling there in early 2025.

Security measures have been heightened for this year’s gathering, including the deployment of Israeli police officers to assist Ukrainian law enforcement in areas where pilgrims are staying. The pilgrimage has persisted through earlier challenges, such as during the pandemic when pilgrims attempted to reach Uman despite travel restrictions.

The Jewish New Year begins at sunset on September 11 and ends after nightfall on September 13. Unlike the secular New Year, it is primarily a religious holiday centered on prayer and reflection. For Breslov followers, the time spent in Uman during this period combines prayer with communal singing and dancing—a practice that Rabbi Nachman emphasized.