The newly inaugurated SEMA Cruise—an extension of the Show that hundreds of industry professionals and Las Vegans eagerly lined up to witness—was held last Friday afternoon.

For more than a decade, 4:00 p.m. on Friday has marked “magic time,” with the Show’s numerous display vehicles forming an unofficial parade exiting the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). This year, that procession was made official. At a time when people are traditionally leaving the SEMA Show, thousands of spectators gathered at Show close last Friday to view the inaugural SEMA Cruise. Even unseasonably cold rain and gridlocked traffic couldn’t faze spectators who witnessed the best rolling car show on the planet.

Thanks to the efforts and sponsorship of Chevrolet and its Cruze, eBay Motors, UPS, Swisstrax and Mothers Polishes, the SEMA Cruise was bolstered with awards, giveaways, entertainment and even enhanced seating for the crowds who have routinely thronged to catch a glimpse of the inspiring cars, trucks and related vehicles of the world’s greatest automotive event. The parade culminated in a car show in the Gold Lot across from the LVCC. Sponsored awards, VIP interviews and continual banter served up by host Joe Sebergandio highlighted the event.

The first-ever SEMA Cruise garnered additional media coverage for the specialty-equipped vehicles—not to mention additional exposure with consumers and enthusiasts.Plans are already underway to expand the program for next year.

Check out video footage of the SEMA Cruise.