The SEMA Show isn’t just a trade show. It’s the biggest celebration of the global aftermarket and car culture. Every November in Las Vegas, you’ll see everything from mild bolt-ons to wild builds from top shops and automakers.
And before the show floor even opens, there’s the big kickoff night. For decades, that was the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet. But 2025 is the year things change — the event has a new name, a new format, and a brand-new home.
Out with the Old, In with the New: SEMA Industry Honors
After nearly 40 years at the Westgate Las Vegas, the banquet is moving down the Strip to the Fontainebleau. Not only that, but the event is also getting rebranded as SEMA Industry Honors.
Instead of a sit-down dinner, it’s turning into a faster-paced, awards-show-style night. Think of it as an upgrade: more entertainment, more energy, and still plenty of room for the networking that makes SEMA special.
The new setup looks like this:
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Reception at 6:00 p.m. – cocktails, appetizers, and networking
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Awards program at 7:00 p.m. – a two-hour show with big honors and surprises
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After-party at 9:00 p.m. – live music, open bars, and more snacks
Actor and comedian Rob Riggle will host the show, giving it a lighter, more fun vibe compared to the old banquet format.
The Venue: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
The Fontainebleau is Vegas’ newest luxury resort, opening its doors in late 2023 after years of anticipation. It’s also the tallest hotel in town and already home to major events like the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Inside, it packs a 550,000 sq. ft. convention space, over 30 restaurants and bars, and a massive casino floor. The Industry Honors will be held inside the BleauLive Theater, giving the event a proper stage-show atmosphere.
And since dinner won’t be served during the event, guests are encouraged to explore the Fontainebleau’s dining spots before the show.
The Awards and Honors
Even with the name and format change, the tradition of honoring the industry’s best continues. Past awards like SEMA Content Creator of the Year, Person of the Year, and the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award will stay part of the program.
At last year’s banquet, ChrisFix took home Content Creator of the Year, Don “The Snake” Prudhomme was honored with the Petersen Award, and Colby McLaughlin of Trim Illusion Inc. was named Person of the Year.
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Source: sema.org
And for the sixth consecutive year, Pedal Commander® was recognized with the SEMA Data Excellence Award Gold in the 2024 show, proving once again we meet SEMA’s highest standards for product data quality.
What To Expect
The rebranded Industry Honors keeps the prestige but ditches the formality. Attendees can wear anything from formal wear to streetwear casual. Tickets are $50, and limited seating is available, so it's smart to lock them in early.
It’s clear SEMA is aiming to evolve with the times, from the less old-school banquet to a more modern awards show. The aftermarket thrives on energy and innovation, and now the kickoff night reflects that, too.
