Circolo Tokenizes the First Real Arepa at TOKEN2049 Dubai

Circolo Tokenizes First Real Arepa at TOKEN2049 Dubai Event

In a groundbreaking blend of culture and technology, Circolo made history yesterday during TOKEN2049 Dubai by unveiling the first real arepa ever tokenized on the blockchain — a bold move that brought Colombian tradition to the forefront of global Web3 innovation.

The event took place at the iconic Juan Valdez Café in Dubai, where an international audience experienced the heart of Latin American flavor in a fully immersive, tech-powered showcase. The activation invited guests to discover the rich history of the arepa, a symbol of community and identity, while rolling up their sleeves to shape and cook their own — guided by Colombian hands and accompanied by the country’s finest coffee. But this was more than a culinary celebration. It was a statement: the world of Web3 is no longer limited to abstract tokens and financial speculation. It’s now reaching into the tangible, the emotional, the human. The final twist? A panel of judges crowned the most authentic arepa of the day, which was then minted live as an NFT — forever preserved on the blockchain, and officially the first real arepa to be tokenized.

The initiative is part of Circolo’s ongoing mission to craft experiences that don’t just entertain, but also connect — bridging cultures, driving curiosity, and giving purpose to every on-chain moment.

We believe in a Web3 that moves people. 

What happened here wasn’t just about food or tech. It was about showing how the blockchain can preserve culture, spark connection, and create meaningful stories,” said Álvaro Daza, CEO and Founder of Circolo.

The tokenized arepa now lives on-chain as a digital artifact — a flavorful symbol of what’s possible when heritage meets technology.

This is just the beginning. With initiatives like these, Circolo continues to redefine how brands engage, inspire, and leave lasting marks in the decentralized world. TOKEN2049, TOKEN2049