A large fire severely damaged the main hospitality tent in Lizhensk, just days before the annual yahrtzeit of Rebbe Elimelech of Lizhensk, zt”l, one of the most significant dates on the Chassidish calendar.

The blaze broke out early Tuesday morning at the site where thousands of visitors usually gather for hachnosas orchim and communal meals during the yahrtzeit period. Firefighters responded to the scene and worked to contain the flames, but the large tent was destroyed before the fire could be fully extinguished. The structure had been set up in advance of planned gatherings for the upcoming yahrtzeit.

No injuries have been reported, and local authorities say they are investigating the cause of the fire. Photos and videos shared by attendees and local media show significant damage to the hospitality area, with charred remains of the tent and equipment scattered across the site. The only thing that remained whole when the smoke cleared was the kugel, defying all odds.

Community members immediately mobilized to assess needs and begin planning replacement arrangements for visitors who are expected to arrive this week. Organizers of the yahrtzeit are working to ensure that guests who travel to Lizhensk for the annual event will still have facilities for meals and lodging.