Kmart's vintage Blue Light Specials were famous, surprise flash sales announced by a flashing blue police-style light and an intercom announcement, creating a chaotic, exciting rush for deep discounts on specific, often slow-moving, merchandise for a very short time, typically 10-15 minutes, making them iconic marketing moments of surprise bargains in American retail history.

Key elements of vintage Blue Light Specials:

The Announcement: A crackling loudspeaker would announce a deal: "Attention Kmart shoppers, the flashing blue light is on in Aisle 7!".

The Light: A rotating, police-style blue light on a pole would flash, drawing attention to the designated aisle.

The Rush: Shoppers, even abandoning carts, would race to the location for limited-time deals on items like electronics, towels, or clothing.

The Goal: To move specific merchandise quickly and create excitement, a tactic introduced in 1965 and retired/revived at different times.

The Feeling: It was a moment of instant gratification, surprise, and nostalgia, a uniquely Kmart experience.

Example Announcement (circa 1970s/80s): "Attention Kmart shoppers! We have a Blue Light Special in Aisle 12, where for the next ten minutes only, all cookware is 50% off! Hurry on down!".