International auto shows including Geneva, Detroit, and Paris have all been canceled for 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, while the New York Auto Show, originally scheduled for April, has been postponed until late August. Even outdoor festivals like the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Pebble Beach are not happening this year. Looking further into the calendar year, what's the status of the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, home to tuning kits and accessories for your Ford Mustang, Chevy Camaro, and even Toyotas?

According to SEMA president Chris Kersting, it's still happening. "While many near-term industry events have been postponed or canceled, the industry's manufacturers are currently going full-bore with plans and preparations for the 2020 SEMA Show in November," Kersting announced in a post on the official SEMA website. He further adds that companies and industries have no choice but to adapt to the new "COVID economy."

SEMA is no stranger to historic and tragic events. It was the first major business gathering in the US following the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. During the Great Recession in 2009 and 2010, it still drew thousands of exhibitors and buyers.

For 2020, "the vast majority" of member companies still intend to exhibit. "They are determined that the SEMA Show will help launch the industry into a successful 2021." At present, Kersting notes, "SEMA is also continuing to work with lawmakers to push for further assistance for businesses in our industry."

Show organizers are working to ensure attendees will still be able to carry on with normal business while also "providing for the health, safety, and well-being of all involved." There's still, of course, plenty of time between now and November 3, the first day of SEMA 2020, and it's entirely possible plans could change, but hopefully, that won't be the case. Also in November is the 2020 Los Angeles Auto Show which, as of now, has also not been canceled or delayed.

Here's hoping the final months of 2020 and all of 2021 will be back to normal.