I guess I didn't think it all through. I've been to sema the past 4 years, so it's novelty for myself has worn off. To get into sema you also have to be sponsored by a company in the automotive industry, tickets cannot be bought unless you give proof you are in the industry. This alone would make it hard for everyone to get tickets. Buuuuuttt, the tickets are only to go INSIDE the convention center. You do not require one to walk around the outside of the convention center where there are still a BOAT LOAD of vehicles and events going on. Friday roll out is sweet though and lots of sema cars and trucks on the strip.
And what you hear about walking around for 4 days straight and still missing everything is true. My first year I couldn't beleive the size, and I was their with the car from our shop - so make it 12 hrs each day and still missed stuff.
Just useless info I thought I would share in case anybody has thought about going. I'll be there again this year.