The mascot, which is called Groodvy, resembles a ball of snow, the most important element for winter games, and his multicolored hair represents all of the athletes who will be participating in the competitions.

The mascot is the work of Visia, a design agency from East Sarajevo. A contest was first held whereby 28 young people suggested 16 possible ideas for the mascot. Judges then chose the top three and the public voted for Groodvy.

Sarajevo and East Sarajevo will serve as hosts (February 10-15, 2019) for the most important sporting event to take place here since the 1984 Winter Olympic Games. The return of the Olympic flame will mark the beginning of the 2019 European Youth Olympic Festival.

Sarajevo and East Sarajevo expect 1,350 athletes from 49 European countries to compete in the 2019 EYOF.