Regarding the Nativity Lent: During this time, the general rule is that from Nov. 28//Nov. 15 and up until the Feast of Nativity, no meat, meat-products, dairy, dairy-products, or egg and egg-products are eaten. Children under 7, lactating and pregnant women are exempt. For those very ill or very aged, the fast can be lessened. If you have any questions or concerns please ask Fr. Andrew.
Fish and fish products, wine and oil are allowed on weekends and certain week days. Shellfish (shrimp, scallops, lobster, crab, oysters, mussels, squid, clams, abalone, etc.) is always allowed.
The last five days of the Lent (Jan 2-6, n.s) gets stricter – no fish allowed, even on a weekend. The day before Nativity, the Eve of the Feast (Jan. 6) – there is a custom to eat nothing until the First Star appears in the early evening. (At least give it a try).
Beginning with the day of the Feast of Nativity, an 11-day fast-free period follows up until the Eve of Theophany, (Jan. 18,/Jan. 5), which is a strict fast day. The Feast of Theophany, the Baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Jan. 19/Jan. 6) is always a fast-free day no matter what day of the week it falls on.