Annual Fiesta de El Grito draws in thousands to the Capitol

Kicking off Mexico's Independence, crowds gathered and cheered for little ones dancing Ballet Folklorico at the Capitol.

The annual fiesta de El Grito draws in thousands, indulging in rich food and music. Celebrating the moment when a catholic priest yelled a cry of independence igniting the revolt against Spain.

It's a cultural celebration Yomania Romero considers a privilege to take part in here in, in the U.S. Romero said she's proud to be Mexican Romero and enjoyed celebrating this day with everyone especially her loved-ones.

Families celebrated the 209th anniversary of Mexico's Independence across the city.

A few blocks away, children lined up outside El Chilitio to take a swing at a piñata filled with candy. Aside from treats, people also had the opportunity to register to vote.

Jackie Hardee brought volunteer voter registrars to the event to help people sign up.

"My goal is to get as many people registered to vote so we have a good turnout by the next election," Hardee said.

The history of El Grito brought local artists together at The Venue ATX on East 6th Street.

Angeles Simona showcased a photographic series of historical women in war, highlighting some powerful Chicanas.

"I wanted to showcase the women of the past but also the women today and what they are doing for our community and how they are contributing back to everything that is going back to current issues," Simona said.

The Venue ATX also collected donations to assist organizations who aid families released from detention centers at the border. The group plans to go to McAllen and drop off supplies later this year.

The Annual Fiesta de el Grito continued well into the night. DPS estimates the crowd size surpassed 10,000 people.