Hasidic pilgrims arriving in Uman for Rosh Hashanah should familiarize themselves in advance with the rules for staying in Ukraine during martial law. Due to the full-scale war in the country, additional restrictions, heightened security measures, a curfew, and special travel rules are in effect.
These requirements are important not only for organizing the pilgrimage but, above all, for the safety of the pilgrims themselves, local residents, and all services operating in Uman during the celebrations.
Rosh Hashanah in Uman: Why Safety Rules Are Especially Important
Every year, thousands of Hasidic pilgrims arrive in Uman for Rosh Hashanah to visit Rabbi Nachman’s grave. During this mass pilgrimage, the strain on transportation, infrastructure, medical services, law enforcement, and emergency responders increases significantly.
Since Ukraine is under martial law, pilgrims must take additional security requirements into account. These include restrictions on movement, the need to carry identification, responding to air raid alerts, and complying with lawful orders from law enforcement.
Curfew in Uman
A curfew is in effect in Uman from 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.
During this time, it is prohibited to be on the streets. The only exception is traveling to the nearest shelter during an air raid alert.
Pilgrims should plan in advance:
- their arrival time in Uman;
- check-in at their accommodations;
- traveling around the city;
- return to their place of residence;
- traveling in groups or individually.
Violating the curfew may result in document checks, delays in travel, and other measures provided for by law.
You must carry your documents with you
While in Uman, pilgrims must carry a valid form of identification.
This is especially important:
- in public places;
- in the pilgrimage area;
- at checkpoints or screening stations;
- during curfew;
- when contacting the police, medical personnel, or other services.
Having your documents ready will help you get through checks faster and avoid misunderstandings.
Air Raid Alert: What Pilgrims Should Do
Pilgrims must not ignore air raid sirens. If an air raid alert is declared in Uman, you should proceed to the nearest shelter or safe place.
Before your trip or immediately after checking in, find out:
- where the nearest shelter is located;
- how quickly you can get there;
- which route is safe at night;
- where the shelters are located near your place of residence, synagogue, place of worship, or pilgrimage site.
An air raid alert is not a mere formality. In wartime, it can pose a real threat to life.
You must comply with law enforcement instructions
During Rosh Hashanah in Uman, law enforcement officers, emergency responders, medical personnel, local government officials, and other services will be on duty. Their task is to ensure order and safety while large crowds are in the city.
Pilgrims must:
- comply with the lawful requests of law enforcement officers;
- avoid gathering in prohibited areas;
- not interfere with the work of emergency services;
- remain calm during inspections;
- carry their identification documents;
- follow the rules of conduct in the pilgrimage area.
These rules are in place for the safety of everyone—both pilgrims and Uman residents.
How to Plan Your Travel Around the City
During the pilgrimage in Uman, temporary restrictions on vehicle and pedestrian traffic may be in effect in certain areas. Therefore, pilgrims should plan their routes in advance.
Before leaving your place of stay, check:
- whether a curfew is about to begin;
- whether there is an air raid alert;
- where the nearest shelter is located;
- whether your intended route is open;
- how long the trip will take;
- whether you have your documents with you.
You should plan your travel especially carefully in the evening and at night.
What Pilgrims Should Do Before Traveling to Uman
Before traveling to Rosh Hashanah, pilgrims should prepare a short checklist:
- check their documents;
- confirm the route to Uman;
- find out the address of their accommodations in advance;
- find the nearest shelter;
- save contact information for assistance;
- familiarize yourself with the curfew rules;
- plan your movements around the city;
- stay informed about official announcements.
The better you prepare for your trip, the fewer risks and misunderstandings you’ll face while in the city.
Why These Rules Are Important
Rosh Hashanah in Uman is an important spiritual event for Hasidic pilgrims. But in wartime, safety must be the top priority.
Compliance with martial law regulations helps:
- reduce risks for pilgrims;
- maintain public order;
- facilitate the work of law enforcement and emergency responders;
- avoid chaos during air raid alerts;
- ensure a more peaceful stay in the city;
- protect local residents and visitors to Uman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a curfew in Uman during Rosh Hashanah?
Yes. A curfew is in effect in Uman from 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. During this time, it is prohibited to be on the streets, except when heading to a shelter during an air raid alert.
Do pilgrims need to carry identification with them?
Yes. While in the city, pilgrims must carry a valid form of identification.
What should you do during an air raid alert?
You must proceed to the nearest shelter or safe place. It is dangerous to ignore an air raid alert.
Can traffic be restricted in Uman during the pilgrimage?
Yes. During the mass pilgrimage, temporary restrictions on vehicle traffic and movement may be in effect in certain areas.
Why should pilgrims find shelter in advance?
So that in the event of an air raid siren, they can quickly reach a safe place without wasting time searching for one.
Pilgrims arriving in Uman for Rosh Hashanah should remember: martial law is in effect in Ukraine, which means additional safety rules and restrictions apply.
Carry your documents with you, observe the curfew, do not ignore air raid alerts, comply with law enforcement instructions, and find out in advance where the nearest shelter is located.
These simple rules will help make your stay in Uman safer for both pilgrims and local residents.
Please share this information with anyone planning a trip to Uman for Rosh Hashanah.