The night started at the Knitting Factory where local bands were playing. I went with my sister to see Two Word Culture, which was loud and angry and fabulous. I had one drink at the venue, a very tasty amaretto sour, while my sister bought herself several beers. After the show we decided to meet up with some of my sister's friends at the Viking, for a few more drinks and a few more laughs. We picked up my friend Ani on the way there so I'd have a buddy, which turned out to be a great idea as my sister was the social butterfly of the evening and kept wandering off. That was okay, though, as the Viking was a perfect spot to finish out the night. A band was playing live when we arrived. They were pretty good, but I sadly can't remember their name. I'm not a big beer drinker so I just ordered a couple of Smirnoff Ices. I always appreciate bars that carry those "girl" beers, as I think it shows they care about the customers who wander in and aren't terribly fond of normal beer. Ani and I sat at the big round firepit and listened to music and watched the crowd and built a skyscraper out of salt and pepper shakers. People flowed around us, some stopping to say hello, several gentlemen commenting on how awesome Ani looked (I think it was her fedora) and everyone generally having a good time. I love the Viking because it seems so friendly and welcoming and laid back and fun.