Rosh Hashana in Uman

Hasidic Jews gather for Rosh Hashana. Uman, Ukraine 09/20/2009

While Muslims were celebrating Eid-al Fitr, the Hasidic Jewish community gathered for Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) on September 19th and 20th.
Every year, tens of thousands of Hasidic Jews from around the world make a pilgrimage to the city of Uman, Ukraine for Rosh Hashanah, to visit the grave of Rebbe Nachman.
The majority comes from Israel and US, staying for 2 days in the town of Uman. They rent rooms and flats and seemingly occupy the whole center of town. Most time is spent praying, in an attempt to clear one's minds and pockets from any sins committed in the past year, as well as for a sweet year to come. The tomb of the Rebbe plays an important role, but praying and celebrations happen as well in makeshift synagogues in peoples houses, public buildings and around Uman lake.
These 2 days are also a time for encounters and joy, dancing, drinking.
The very few women stay at a distance from the main events.