I’ve often said that SEMA is the Super Bowl of the automotive industry. While there are valid arguments both for and against that comparison, one fact remains: Every year, SEMA draws more than 2,200 exhibitors and approximately 160,000 visitors—making it one of the top three events held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. That alone is nothing short of remarkable for anyone who lives and breathes automotive culture.

Over the years, SEMA has continued to evolve—not just in its displays but in the convention center itself. The front lot of prime real estate was open for more eye-catching exhibits: slammed and lifted builds, race-spec creations, vendor trailers, and the latest Hooligan’s arena, with big-horsepower cars, trucks and even bobtails (18-wheel rigs with no trailer) lighting up the pavement with massive burnouts. The air, and the tram station, filling with glorious tire smoke, creating a scene that’s pure sensory overload as these vehicles bounce off the rev limiter for minutes on end. 

If you didn’t make it to SEMA this year, fortunately we love sharing information, so here is a peek into what you’ll find behind the halls of SEMA.

The Halls of SEMA

We’ll jump right into the hall that garners the most attention: Central Hall. This is the heart of performance, racing, classic car restoration, and powersports. You’ll find some of the biggest names in motorsports here—everything from individual performance parts to complete chassis builds and award-winning show cars. If high performance and pro-level classic builds are your thing, Central Hall is where you belong.

What Central Hall is to performance, North Hall is to electronics and technology. Here, stereos blast the latest subwoofer setups, infotainment systems get their upgrades, and cutting-edge security systems ensure your ride stays yours. If you’re drawn to the latest in automotive tech, North Hall offers a hands-on look at user experience–driven aftermarket innovation.

Where the road ends, the trail begins and that’s what West Hall is all about. Over the years, this area has evolved alongside the industry, shifting from traditional off-road builds to full-blown overlanding rigs and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just love the outdoors, West Hall has you covered with the latest lift and leveling kits, camper setups, off-road lighting, and rugged tires. So, when someone says, “Go West, son,” there’s a good chance they mean “Go to West Hall.” 

For shop owners, South Hall—both upper and lower levels—is the place to be. It’s packed with the latest tools and equipment for collision repair, refinishing, and OEM or aftermarket services. This is where suppliers, buyers, and shop owners connect to discuss products that boost capacity, turnaround time, and, of course, profits. But even if you’re not running a business, it’s also a great place to dream up one incredible home garage setup.

SEMA Live and Panel Discussions

This year, SEMA Live was sponsored by AutoZone and increased its live coverage throughout the show. The programming featured interviews with key figures in automotive culture, CEOs of leading companies, and in-depth product walkthroughs and feature builds. This new approach not only provided valuable insight for those unable to attend in person but also expanded SEMA’s reach to a global audience.

Throughout the week, attendees could also sit in on panel discussions featuring some of the industry’s top professionals. These sessions offered firsthand perspectives on best practices, emerging trends, and the personal methodologies that drive success across the automotive world.

A Show Worth Seeing

While SEMA might not be everyone’s jug of race fuel, it’s an experience every gearhead should have at least once in their life. Just be warned—your step count for the week can easily climb into six digits if you’re determined to see everything SEMA has to offer. And that’s not even counting the attractions waiting just outside the convention center.

If you still need a little convincing about going in the future, here are a few other fun things to do during SEMA week in Las Vegas. Who knows—maybe next year you’ll spot us in the crowd, grinning from ear to ear.