Barber Christmas Ball:
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Bayfront Convention Center | One Sassafras Pier
Doors open at 7 p.m. | Music by Stiletto Fire from 8 p.m. to Midnight
Complimentary Valet Parking | Black Tie Optional
Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, tasty desserts, soft drinks and two cocktails per person (cash bar also available)
Celebrate the season at the Barber Christmas Ball: A Colorful Christmas. For over six decades, the Barber Christmas Ball has brought our community together to celebrate the season while supporting the Dr. Gertrude Barber Foundation.
Step into a night filled with vibrant color, lively music, scrumptious bites, dancing, and festive cheer, as we honor the spirit of the season and the colorful impact we make together for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism.
The joy doesn’t end when the music stops; the very next day the ballroom transforms once again – this time for a special dance for the adults in our services. Thanks to our donors to the Dr. Gertrude Barber Foundation, they’ll experience the same colorful decorations and magic of the season in a celebration that is truly their own.
Join us and add your own touch of color to this unforgettable celebration!
The annual Barber Christmas Ball has been a cherished holiday tradition for generations, supporting Barber National Institute. Now in its 61st year, its continued growth and popularity reflects the deep-rooted connection families have with this celebration.
Courtney and Andrew Doyle, pictured above, are excited to carry on this tradition and serve as this year’s Chair couple. Longtime supporters of Barber National Institute, Courtney and Andrew share a deep family commitment to Erie.
Andrew’s parents, Robert and Lynne Doyle, were previously chairs of the Barber Christmas Ball and Lynne, the Ladies Only Luncheon, and remains active on the event’s steering committee.
Courtney’s father, Michael Victor, has been a longtime supporter and advocate of Barber National Institute's mission, instilling in her a strong commitment to service and community involvement.
“It’s an honor to support Barber National Institute and its extraordinary work in uplifting individuals with disabilities and their families. Erie is our home, and we believe in showing up for the institutions that make this community stronger, more inclusive, and more hopeful,” said Courtney. “Hosting this gala is one way we can help celebrate and expand Barber National Institute’s impact.”
A dedicated advocate for causes that make a meaningful difference, Andrew has been a steadfast supporter of Barber National Institute and its mission. With a background in business, he approaches this role with both heart and purpose. “We’ve always believed in the power of people and community. Supporting Barber National Institute is a privilege because it represents exactly that- a commitment to human potential and compassionate programs.”
Courtney founded TrueNorth Events in August 2024, a woman-owned, Erie-based event planning company and Andrew serves as head of Human Resources at Fralo Industries, where he guides leadership development and employee relations across the company.
Courtney and Andrew reside in Erie with their two daughters Reagan (11) and Sawyer (9).
