In Uman, the sale of alcoholic beverages will be banned in the pilgrimage district during Rosh Hashanah
In Uman, during the Hasidic pilgrimage for Rosh Hashanah, the sale of alcoholic beverages will be prohibited in the pilgrimage district. The restriction will be in effect as part of special security and movement measures being implemented in the city from September 4 to 17, 2026.
The ban applies to the area where large numbers of Hasidic pilgrims gather. These measures are being implemented to enhance public safety, prevent conflicts, and reduce risks in areas with large crowds.
Where and when the ban on alcohol sales will be in effect
The ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages will be in effect:
- Period: September 4–17, 2026;
- Location: the pilgrimage district in Uman;
- reason: the observance of Rosh Hashanah and the mass arrival of Hasidic pilgrims;
- purpose: to ensure the safety of local residents, visitors, and pilgrims.
It is in the pilgrimage district that the largest number of pilgrims traditionally gather, as they come to Uman to pray at Rabbi Nachman’s grave.
What Else Will Be Banned in the Pilgrimage District
In addition to alcoholic beverages, the sale of goods that may pose a safety risk will be prohibited in the pilgrimage district while the special measures are in effect.
These include:
- alcoholic beverages;
- fireworks;
- pyrotechnics;
- knives;
- other sharp or cutting objects;
- air guns;
- toys that imitate air guns.
These restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of dangerous situations in places where large crowds gather.
Why Is the Sale of Alcohol Banned in Uman During Rosh Hashanah?
Every year during Rosh Hashanah, a large number of Hasidic pilgrims arrive in Uman. During this period, the city operates under increased strain on transportation, public utilities, healthcare, law enforcement, and urban infrastructure.
The ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages in the pilgrimage district is one of the preventive safety measures.
Alcohol in areas with large crowds can increase the risk of:
- conflicts;
- disturbances of public order;
- injuries;
- uncontrolled behavior;
- dangerous incidents.
That is why, during the mass pilgrimage, additional rules are enforced in the area where the Hasidim are staying.
Special Regulations in Uman from September 4 to 17
From September 4 to 17, 2026, special regulations regarding entry, exit, and movement will also be in effect in Uman.
This means that the following measures may be in effect in the city:
- traffic restrictions;
- enhanced checkpoints;
- additional checks;
- special rules for certain routes;
- restrictions in the pilgrimage district.
Local residents, visitors, business owners, and pilgrims are advised to take these rules into account in advance and plan their routes accordingly.
Who Is Affected by the Ban
The ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages in the pilgrimage district primarily applies to:
- stores;
- temporary retail outlets;
- business owners;
- establishments operating in the pilgrimage area;
- vendors during Rosh Hashanah.
At the same time, this information is also important for pilgrims, local residents, and visitors to Uman, as stricter security measures will be in effect in the city.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Business owners operating in the pilgrimage district need to prepare in advance for the restrictions.
From September 4 through 17, the sale of alcoholic beverages and other goods that may pose a safety risk will be prohibited.
Violations of these rules may result in action by law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
What Pilgrims and Visitors Should Know
Hasidic pilgrims arriving in Uman for Rosh Hashanah should be aware that special rules will be in effect in the pilgrimage district.
Before your trip, we recommend:
- familiarize yourself with the restrictions;
- do not purchase or transport prohibited items;
- carry your documents with you;
- comply with law enforcement officers’ instructions;
- stay informed about official announcements;
- plan your travel around the city in advance.
Rosh Hashanah in Uman: Why the City Is Implementing Additional Measures
Uman is one of the main pilgrimage sites for the Bratslav Hasidim. The city is home to the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav, which thousands of pilgrims visit every year on Rosh Hashanah.
Due to the large crowds in the pilgrimage district, local authorities and law enforcement implement additional security measures every year.
In 2026, these measures will be in effect from September 4 through September 17.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the ban on alcohol sales be in effect in Uman?
The ban will be in effect from September 4 to 17, 2026.
Where exactly will the sale of alcohol be prohibited?
The restriction applies to the pilgrimage district in Uman.
Why is the sale of alcoholic beverages being banned?
The ban is being imposed for safety reasons during the mass gathering of Hasidic pilgrims and visitors to the city.
What other items will be banned from sale?
In addition to alcohol, the sale of fireworks, pyrotechnics, knives, other sharp or cutting objects, air guns, and toys that imitate them will be prohibited.
Will there be other restrictions in Uman?
Yes. From September 4 through 17, special security, entry, exit, and movement restrictions will be in effect in the city.