Alongside patriotic music and waving flags in July Fourth parades across Iowa and New Hampshire were clear reminders of a presidential race coming next year: Red balloons promoting "Jeb! 2016," a tractor draped in a Rick Perry banner and dutiful volunteers holding signs and chanting for their chosen candidates.

Marching in Fourth of July parades in early voting states has become a tradition for politicians seeking the White House, giving them a chance to boost their name recognition and glad-hand with voters.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton marched in a parade in New Hampshire's North Country.

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and former Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee, as well as South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, worked the crowd in Amherst, New Hampshire.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio spent the holiday courting voters in New Hampshire's Lakes Region.

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley met voters in Iowa.