GAZA CITY (Ma'an) -- Hamas will hold its 25th anniversary celebrations in the Gaza Strip on Dec. 8, a representative of the movement said Saturday.

Hamas moved the commemoration from its usual date on Dec. 14 to coincide with the anniversary of the beginning of the first Palestinian intifada, or uprising, on Dec. 8, 1987, Hamas PR official Ashraf Zayed said.

He confirmed the intention of exiled party chief Khalid Mashaal to attend the celebrations in Gaza.

Streets will be decorated, marches and scout parades will be held throughout Gaza, and Hamas leaders will address the main festival outlining their future political program, he said.

Representatives from Palestinian parties, and Islamic, Arab and European countries will attend, he added.

Lebanese band Waed will play at the main celebration, amongst a host of other singers.