NCWC to Host Cold War Gala on Nov. 8, Cold War Conversation on Nov. 7

BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. (September 4, 2025) – The National Cold War Center (NCWC) will host its annual Cold War Gala, set for November 8, following a Cold War Conversation event with internationally renowned interpreter, Pavel Palazhchenko on November 7.

The Cold War Gala, NCWC’s signature fundraising event, brings supporters from across the globe together to celebrate the mission and raise funds to support the development of America’s only federally designated museum for the Cold War. The event will be held in Hangar 207 at the Arkansas Aeroplex located at the former Blytheville Air Force Base in Blytheville, Arkansas.

Guests will have the opportunity to tour the on-site aircrafts, participate in live and silent auctions, and enjoy live entertainment and dancing - all in support of preserving and honoring the history and impact of the Cold War.

The evening prior, on November 7, the Cold War Conversation event will feature a compelling interview with Pavel Palazhchenko, chief English interpreter for former Soviet Union president, Mikhail Gorbachev. Palazhchenko played a critical role in Cold War diplomacy, particularly at the landmark summits between Ronald Reagan and Gorbachev that helped bring the Cold War to an end.

"Pavel Palazhchenko brings a unique front-row perspective on the largely peaceful end to the Cold War,” said Christian Ostermann, NCWC Executive Director. “Palazhchenko’s participation is not only an incredible opportunity to get an insider’s view, it’s also a powerful endorsement and an affirmation that the NCWC is leading the way on preserving, interpreting and advancing global understanding of the war that changed the world.”

For more information on both the Cold War Conversation and Gala, or to purchase tickets, visit nationalcoldwarcenter.com/events/2025-cold-war-gala. Proceeds support the continued development and construction of the National Cold War Center.