It’s that time of year again: Filling my tote bag with seasonal fruits from the local Palo Alto Farmers Market, on California Avenue, to conjure up all the classic fall flavors. Whipping up the Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp, my kitchen filled with the sweet and comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg....

Crates piled high with colorful seasonal produce, the aroma of fresh fruits interwoven with the spices of baked goods, friendly chattering as vendors hand out samples — these are the sights, scents and sounds of the three Palo Alto farmers markets. The 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday Gilman Street market,...